This reaction, CH4 + 2O2 –> CO2 + 2H2O, is exothermic. Describe this exothermic reaction in terms of energy involved in bond breaking and bond making.

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The heat energy absorbed to break the bonds in CH4 and 2O2 is less than the heat energy released to form the bonds in CO2 and 2H2O, so overall enthalpy change is negative.