L. given the balanced equation representing a reaction: what occurs during this reaction? 1) energy is absorbed as bonds are broken.2) energy is absorbed as bonds are formed.3) energy is released as bonds are broken4) energy is released as bonds are formed.

1) energy is absorbed and bonds are broken 

This is due to two reasons 
1. The breaking of bonds requires and input energy. The formation of bonds is a release on energy. As bond breaking requires energy, it is only natural that once of the answers would involve the absorption of energy. 
2. O2 is the covalent bond between two oxygen molecules. When these molecules are separated the bond is broken. As such the answer must be 1 

I hope this helps 

It is a product