Which statement correctly describes the difference between an endothermic and an exothermic reaction?

• A. An endothermic reaction absorbs heat from the surroundings, while an exothermic reaction releases heat to the surroundings.
• B. An endothermic reaction releases heat to the surroundings, while an exothermic reaction absorbs heat from the surroundings.
• C. Both endothermic and exothermic reactions absorb heat from the surroundings.
• D. Both endothermic and exothermic reactions release heat to the surroundings.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definitions of endothermic and exothermic reactions: An endothermic reaction is one that absorbs heat from its surroundings, causing the surroundings to get cooler.
2. Recognize that an exothermic reaction is the opposite: it releases heat to the surroundings, causing the surroundings to get warmer.
3. Recall that heat flow direction is key: if heat flows into the system, the reaction is endothermic; if heat flows out of the system, the reaction is exothermic.
4. Apply this understanding to the given statements and identify which correctly matches these definitions.
5. Conclude that the correct statement is: 'An endothermic reaction absorbs heat from the surroundings, while an exothermic reaction releases heat to the surroundings.'