Which statement best describes the energy change in an endothermic reaction?

• A. Energy is absorbed from the surroundings.
• B. No energy change occurs.
• C. Energy is released to the surroundings.
• D. Energy is converted into mass.

Answer: (A)

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 process, the system gains energy, which means the energy content of the products is higher than that of the reactants.
3. Recognize that because energy is absorbed, the surroundings lose energy, leading to a temperature decrease in the surroundings.
4. Compare this with exothermic reactions, where energy is released to the surroundings, causing the surroundings to warm up.
5. Conclude that the best description of the energy change in an endothermic reaction is that energy is absorbed from the surroundings.