How do cold packs create a chemical reaction that produces cold?

Question

How do cold packs create a chemical reaction that produces cold?

In: Chemistry

Answer 1

There basically are two types of chemical reactions. Endothermic and exothermic reactions. While an exothermic reaction gives off heat an endothermic one absorbs heat from its surroundings. Cold packs contain chemicals that react endothermically and therefore remove heat from your body, cooling it.