Which statement is true for the endothermic reaction 2 SO2(g) → 2 SO3(g) + O2(g)?

• A. Heat is absorbed from the surroundings during the reaction.
• B. The products have less energy than the reactants.
• C. The enthalpy change (ΔH) for the reaction is negative.
• D. The temperature of the surroundings increases as the reaction proceeds.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the meaning of an endothermic reaction: it is a reaction that absorbs heat from the surroundings, meaning energy is taken in during the process.
2. Recall that the enthalpy change (\$\Delta H\$) for an endothermic reaction is positive because the system gains energy.
3. Analyze the energy relationship between reactants and products: in an endothermic reaction, the products have higher energy than the reactants since energy is absorbed.
4. Consider the effect on the surroundings: because the system absorbs heat, the surroundings lose heat, so their temperature decreases rather than increases.
5. Evaluate each statement based on these principles to determine which one correctly describes the endothermic reaction.