The term "endothermic" refers to chemical reactions that absorb heat energy from their surroundings. In an endothermic reaction, the products have a higher energy level than the reactants, resulting in a net intake of energy. This can lead to a drop in temperature of the surrounding environment. Common examples of endothermic reactions include photosynthesis, where plants take in energy from sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose, and certain dissolving processes, like that of ammonium nitrate in water.