In a vapor-compression system, where does the refrigerant absorb heat and produce cooling?
Refrigeration · EPA 608 Core. The correct answer, and the reasoning behind it.
The refrigeration cycle, refrigerant states and pressures, gauges and leak detection.
The question
In a vapor-compression system, where does the refrigerant absorb heat and produce cooling?
- In the condenser
- In the compressor
- In the evaporatorCorrect answer
- In the receiver
Why “In the evaporator” is correct
Low-pressure liquid refrigerant boils in the evaporator, absorbing heat from the air or water passing over it. That boiling is where cooling happens; the vapor then goes to the compressor.
Source: EPA: Test Topics
Why the other answers are wrong
- In the condenser — The condenser rejects heat to the outdoors or to water.
- In the compressor — The compressor raises pressure and temperature; it does not cool the space.
- In the receiver — A receiver stores liquid refrigerant; it does not produce cooling.
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