If a solution process is exothermic, how does the energy required for dissolving the solute compare with the energy released?
the energy required is equal to the energy released.
the energy required is more than the energy released.
the energy required is less than the energy released.

The correct answer would be the third option. If a solution process is exothermic, the energy required is less than the energy released. An exothermic reaction is a reaction that releases energy to the surroundings. The energy released should be more than what is absorbed in order to maintain the reaction.