In a refrigeration cycle, which component absorbs heat from the space being cooled?

In a refrigeration cycle, which component absorbs heat from the space being cooled?

• A. Condenser
• B. Compressor
• C. Expansion Valve
• D. Evaporator

Answer: (D)

Heat energy is taken up by the evaporator. In this part of the cycle, the refrigerant enters as a low-pressure, cold liquid. As air from the space passes over the evaporator coils, heat flows into the refrigerant and causes it to boil into a low-pressure vapor. This absorption of heat is what cools the space. The vapor then moves on to the compressor to continue the cycle. The other components have different roles: the condenser releases heat to the surroundings, the expansion valve drops the refrigerant pressure to enable cooling, and the compressor raises the gas pressure to drive the cycle.

Heat energy is taken up by the evaporator. In this part of the cycle, the refrigerant enters as a low-pressure, cold liquid. As air from the space passes over the evaporator coils, heat flows into the refrigerant and causes it to boil into a low-pressure vapor. This absorption of heat is what cools the space. The vapor then moves on to the compressor to continue the cycle. The other components have different roles: the condenser releases heat to the surroundings, the expansion valve drops the refrigerant pressure to enable cooling, and the compressor raises the gas pressure to drive the cycle.