During an experiment, a researcher measures the heat change associated with the dissolution of sodium chloride (NaCl) in water at constant temperature and pressure. The dissolution process is endothermic, absorbing heat from the surroundings. The researcher records a temperature drop in the solution after the salt is added. To analyze the results, the researcher wants to calculate the enthalpy change (ΔH) of the dissolution reaction.
Considering that the dissolution of NaCl can be represented as:
NaCl(s) → Na+(aq) + Cl−(aq)
Which of the following statements is TRUE regarding the enthalpy change of the dissolution reaction for NaCl?