enthalpy

Hello, I have a conceptual question about enthalpies of formation I hope you can assist me with. Given that the enthalpy of reaction is typically negative, does that suggest that the product formed is lower in energy than the reactants? For example, O2 + 1/2 C (graphite) --> CO2. ΔH f...

I'm having a hard time conceptually making sense of high E bonds and energy release. I've learned that bonds store energy and so was under the impression that breaking a bond would release Energy but it's the opposite. In ATP hydrolysis, it's favorable and exergonic. I've read another thread...