In what way do endothermic reactions differ from exothermic reactions?

Endothermic reactions are characterized by the absorption of heat from their surroundings, which often results in a temperature decrease in the environment where the reaction takes place. This occurs because energy is required to break the bonds of the reactants, and this energy is taken from the surroundings in the form of heat.

Exothermic reactions, on the other hand, involve the release of heat to the surroundings. As the products are formed, energy is released when new bonds are created, leading to an increase in heat in the surroundings.

Thus, endothermic reactions distinctly differ from exothermic reactions in their energy exchange with the environment: endothermic reactions draw in heat, while exothermic reactions give off heat. This fundamental difference highlights the contrasting nature of these two types of reactions, reinforcing the role heat plays in chemical processes.