Which statement correctly describes an endothermic chemical reaction?

• A. The products have less energy than the reactants.
• B. The temperature of the surroundings increases as the reaction proceeds.
• C. Energy is absorbed from the surroundings during the reaction.
• D. Energy is released to the surroundings during the reaction.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of an endothermic reaction: it is a chemical reaction that absorbs energy from its surroundings, usually in the form of heat.
2. Recall that in an endothermic reaction, the energy content of the products is higher than that of the reactants because energy is taken in to form the products.
3. Recognize that because energy is absorbed, the temperature of the surroundings typically decreases, not increases, during an endothermic reaction.
4. Compare the given statements to these principles: the correct description should mention energy absorption from the surroundings.
5. Conclude that the statement 'Energy is absorbed from the surroundings during the reaction' correctly describes an endothermic chemical reaction.