Activation Energy: Activation energy refers to the minimum amount of energy required for a chemical reaction to occur. It's like the push needed to start climbing up that first hill on a roller coaster.
Exothermic Reaction: An exothermic reaction releases heat or thermal energy into its surroundings. It's like going down a steep drop on a roller coaster and feeling all that rush of excitement.
Endothermic Reaction: An endothermic reaction absorbs heat or thermal energy from its surroundings. It's like going up a hill on a roller coaster, needing extra input of external energy to climb higher.