Chemistry

Question Analysis
This question involves the energy changes that occur during solution formation. The main focus is on distinguishing between endothermic (energy-absorbing) and exothermic (energy-releasing) steps.

Key Concept Explanation
Solution formation has three key steps:
Breaking solute-solute forces → endothermic (requires energy input).
Breaking solvent-solvent forces → endothermic (requires energy input).
Forming solute-solvent forces → exothermic (releases energy to the surroundings).
The overall enthalpy change (ΔH_solution) depends on the balance of these three steps.

Step-by-Step Solution
1. Identify the energy nature of each step in solution formation.
2. Evaluate options:
A: Breaking solute-solute forces needs energy → endothermic → eliminate.
B: Breaking solvent-solvent forces needs energy → endot...