Endothermic reactions are chemical processes that absorb heat energy from their surroundings, resulting in a drop in temperature around the reaction site.
In these reactions, the energy of the products is higher than that of the reactants, because energy must be taken in to drive the reaction forward. This energy is usually absorbed as heat, making the surroundings feel cooler.
Common examples of endothermic reactions include:
- Photosynthesis (plants absorb sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose)
- Melting of ice into water
- Evaporation of liquid water
- Cooking food (e.g., baking bread)
Endothermic reactions are essential in nature and industry. They are used in processes like refrigeration, cold packs, and chemical synthesis where controlled energy input is needed to form specific products.