Which statement describes electrolysis?
(1) chemical energy is used to produce an electrical change.
(2) chemical energy is used to produce a thermal change.
(3) electrical energy is used to produce a chemical change.
(4) thermal energy is used to produce a chemical change

the enthalpy of formation of water is given as -285.8kj/mol, which states that the enthalpy of formation is negative.

negative enthalpy of formation indicates that the heat is released during the reaction process. the heat is released from reaction to the surroundings the enthalpy is expressed with a negative sign with the energy given out in the reaction process.

the formation of water takes place by giving out heat which is -285.8 kj/mol.