Why does NaOH dissociation absorb energy yet the overall reaction releases heat?

[m0286]

Nevermind!

My heads going crazy when I think about this PLEASE HELP!

In a reaction, Na+ ions are separated from OH- ions, a process of dissociation that absorbs energy, yet, in the end, heat was liberated by the overall process... WHY?

 

[m0286]

Never Mind I Figured It Out Thanks For Looking Though :)

 

[Gokul43201]

It may still be instructive (to yourself) and others to post whatever it is that you have figured out.

 

[GCT]

enthalpy of dissolution heh? It takes energy to break apart the lattice energy, yet the increased order associated with the solvation suffices for the overall reaction to be exothermic. The one has to take into account both enthalpy and entropical factors.