What is the main purpose of a compressor in a refrigeration cycle?

The function of a compressor in a refrigeration cycle is crucial for the overall process of heat transfer. The compressor serves to increase the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant. This is essential because, during the refrigeration cycle, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the environment (such as the interior of a refrigerator) as it evaporates at low pressure in the evaporator.

Once the refrigerant vapor is drawn into the compressor, it is compressed, resulting in an increase in pressure and temperature. This high-pressure, high-temperature vapor then flows to the condenser, where it releases the absorbed heat to the surrounding environment and condenses back into a liquid state.

By increasing the refrigerant's pressure and temperature, the compressor ensures that the refrigerant can continue to absorb heat efficiently in the evaporator after passing through the condenser. This cycle of compression, condensation, expansion, and evaporation is what enables a refrigeration system to cool effectively.

Understanding this role highlights the compressor's importance in maintaining the necessary conditions for heat exchange within the refrigeration cycle.