Endothermic process

Definition

An endothermic process is a chemical reaction or physical change that absorbs heat energy from its surroundings. These processes result in a decrease in the temperature of the surrounding environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Endothermic processes require an input of energy to proceed.
2. Examples include melting ice, evaporating water, and photosynthesis.
3. The enthalpy change ($\Delta H$) for an endothermic process is positive.
4. In an endothermic reaction, the products have higher energy than the reactants.
5. These processes often feel cold to the touch because they absorb heat.

Review Questions

• What happens to the temperature of the surroundings during an endothermic process?
• Give two examples of endothermic processes.
• Is the enthalpy change ($\Delta H$) for an endothermic process positive or negative?

Related terms

Exothermic Process: A chemical reaction or physical change that releases heat energy to its surroundings.

$\Delta H$ (Enthalpy Change): The amount of heat absorbed or released by a system at constant pressure during a chemical reaction or physical change.

Specific Heat Capacity:

The amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one gram of a substance by one degree Celsius.