Endothermic意思

"Endothermic" is a term used in physics and chemistry to describe a process or reaction that absorbs heat from its surroundings. The word is derived from the Greek "endo-" meaning "within" and "thermos" meaning "heat." In contrast, an exothermic process or reaction releases heat into its surroundings.

Endothermic processes can occur in various contexts, including changes of state (such as melting or boiling), chemical reactions, and biological processes. For example, when water evaporates, it absorbs heat from the environment, making the environment cooler. This is an endothermic process because heat is being absorbed.

In the context of living organisms, endothermy refers to the ability to maintain a constant internal body temperature by generating heat internally. Endothermic animals, also known as warm-blooded animals, can regulate their body temperature independently of the environment, which is a characteristic of birds and mammals.