What is the result of a spontaneous reaction?

A spontaneous reaction is defined as a process that occurs naturally under a given set of conditions without the need for external influence. This means that once the reactants are in proper conditions (such as temperature and pressure), the reaction proceeds on its own, producing products and releasing energy in some cases.

A key aspect of spontaneity is that it is intrinsically related to the thermodynamic favorability of the reaction, which can be determined by changes in enthalpy and entropy. Spontaneous reactions can be exothermic, but they are not limited to that category; some spontaneous reactions are endothermic but still proceed due to a change in entropy that outweighs the enthalpic contribution.

This understanding of spontaneity distinguishes it from other forms of reactions that may require catalysts, external energy, or specific conditions to start or sustain the reaction. Hence, the statement that it occurs without external influence correctly encapsulates the nature of spontaneous reactions.