Which of the following is a common characteristic of endothermic reactions?

Endothermic reactions are defined by their ability to absorb heat from their surroundings during the process of the reaction. This absorption of thermal energy typically causes a decrease in the temperature of the surrounding environment, making the context cooler. This characteristic is crucial in a variety of chemical processes, such as photosynthesis, where plants absorb sunlight to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen.

The other choices presented do not accurately describe endothermic reactions. The option suggesting that they release heat is characteristic of exothermic reactions, where energy is released as heat. The conversion of solid to gas is not specific to endothermic reactions, as this phase change can occur in both endothermic and exothermic contexts. Lastly, while some chemical reactions may produce sound energy, this is not a defining trait of endothermic reactions, which primarily focus on the absorption of heat. Thus, the defining quality of endothermic reactions is their absorption of heat, making the correct choice clear.