Which term describes a chemical reaction that absorbs heat from its surroundings?

• A. Isothermal
• B. Catalytic
• C. Exothermic
• D. Endothermic

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the meaning of each term: 'Isothermal' refers to a process occurring at constant temperature, 'Catalytic' involves the use of a catalyst to speed up a reaction, 'Exothermic' describes a reaction that releases heat to the surroundings, and 'Endothermic' describes a reaction that absorbs heat from the surroundings.
2. Recall that in thermodynamics, reactions that absorb heat cause the system to gain energy, which means the surroundings lose heat, leading to a temperature decrease in the surroundings.
3. Identify that the question asks for the term describing a reaction that absorbs heat, which matches the definition of 'Endothermic'.
4. Confirm that 'Exothermic' is the opposite, where heat is released, so it cannot be the correct answer here.
5. Conclude that the correct term for a reaction absorbing heat from its surroundings is 'Endothermic'.