Which of the following best describes an endothermic reaction?

An endothermic reaction is characterized by its ability to absorb heat from the surroundings. This absorption of heat results in a decrease in the temperature of the immediate environment, which can be measured with a thermometer. During an endothermic process, energy in the form of heat is taken in to break bonds within the reactants, allowing the reaction to proceed.

In contrast, exothermic reactions release heat, causing the surrounding temperature to increase. The nature of endothermic reactions means that they may not occur spontaneously at all temperatures, as some may require specific conditions to happen. Additionally, producing light is not a defining feature of an endothermic reaction—while some reactions may emit light, it is not intrinsic to the endothermic process itself. Therefore, the correct description of an endothermic reaction is that it absorbs heat from its surroundings.