The enthalpy change for the reaction between zinc metal and copper(II) sulfate solution is \(-217{\text{ kJ}}\,{\text{mo}}{{\text{l}}^{ - 1}}\). Which statement about this reaction is correct?

A.     The reaction is endothermic and the temperature of the reaction mixture initially rises.

B.     The reaction is endothermic and the temperature of the reaction mixture initially drops.

C.     The reaction is exothermic and the temperature of the reaction mixture initially rises.

D.     The reaction is exothermic and the temperature of the reaction mixture initially drops.

C

Answer D was the most common error.