Stage 1: Grasping exothermic reactions An exothermic reaction is a chemical process that liberates energy as heat. In these reactions, the resultant substances possess less energy than the initial substances.Stage 2: Pinpointing the exothermic reaction Considering the choices provided:- Choice (1) details the creation of hydrogen chloride, an exothermic reaction.- Choice (2) describes the synthesis of ammonia, also exothermic.- Choice (3) outlines the burning of benzene, a strongly exothermic reaction.Conclusion: Consequently, choice (1) signifies an exothermic reaction. Hence, the correct selection is option (1).