In a basic vapor-compression refrigeration cycle, which component is responsible for raising the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant vapor?

In a basic vapor-compression refrigeration cycle, which component is responsible for raising the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant vapor?

• A. Evaporator
• B. Compressor
• C. Condenser
• D. Metering device

Answer: (B)

The compressor is the component that does the work needed to raise the refrigerant’s pressure, and in doing so its temperature also increases. It takes low-pressure, low-temperature vapor from the evaporator and compresses it, which adds energy to the gas. This energy input raises both the pressure and the temperature, so the refrigerant leaves as high-pressure, high-temperature vapor (often superheated) ready to release heat in the condenser. The evaporator simply absorbs heat to vaporize the liquid, and the metering device lowers pressure before the evaporator; neither raises pressure or temperature by doing work.

The compressor is the component that does the work needed to raise the refrigerant’s pressure, and in doing so its temperature also increases. It takes low-pressure, low-temperature vapor from the evaporator and compresses it, which adds energy to the gas. This energy input raises both the pressure and the temperature, so the refrigerant leaves as high-pressure, high-temperature vapor (often superheated) ready to release heat in the condenser. The evaporator simply absorbs heat to vaporize the liquid, and the metering device lowers pressure before the evaporator; neither raises pressure or temperature by doing work.