So, are positive enthalpy changes always endothermic? Well, it's not that simple. An endothermic reaction is like a magic trick - it makes energy disappear from the surroundings and appear in the system. But, just like how a magic trick requires some clever sleight of hand, an endothermic reaction requires a specific set of circumstances, like the right temperature and pressure conditions.
For a reaction to be endothermic, the enthalpy change must be positive, meaning the system absorbs energy from its surroundings. It's like a game of energy tag - the system is "it" and it's chasing after energy to absorb. And, just like how you need to be careful not to get caught when you're "it", the system needs to be careful not to get too hot or it might just implode!
Endothermic Reaction Non Examples at Zara Baillieu blog
But, here's the thing - not all positive enthalpy changes are endothermic. It's like how not all expensive things are necessarily worth it. You might spend a lot of money on something, but if it doesn't make you happy, then what's the point? Similarly, a system might absorb energy, but if it's not in the right circumstances, it won't be an endothermic reaction.