Which statement best describes an endothermic process?

• A. It releases energy to the surroundings.
• B. It occurs only at high temperatures.
• C. It causes a temperature rise in the surroundings.
• D. It absorbs energy from the surroundings.

Answer: (D)

Endothermic processes are defined by energy entering the system from the surroundings. In these reactions or changes, heat (or another form of energy) is absorbed, so the system gains energy while the surroundings lose energy. This often makes the surroundings feel cooler because heat is leaving them to fuel the process. Examples include melting ice, where heat from the surroundings is needed to break the solid’s bonds, and evaporating water, which also requires heat input from the environment.

That’s why the correct statement is absorbing energy from the surroundings. The other options describe energy release to the surroundings (exothermic), a condition not defining endothermic, or a temperature change in the surroundings that corresponds to heat leaving the surroundings—also not characteristic of endothermic processes.