In refrigeration, what is the role of the compressor?

The role of the compressor in refrigeration systems is vital because it is responsible for raising the pressure of the refrigerant. When the refrigerant enters the compressor, it is typically in a low-pressure, low-temperature vapor state. The compressor's primary function is to compress this vapor, thereby increasing its pressure and temperature. By doing so, the refrigerant can then circulate through the system, enabling it to release heat as it moves through the condenser, ultimately allowing the refrigeration cycle to remove heat from the area being cooled.

This elevation in pressure is crucial for the subsequent stages of the refrigeration cycle, as it prepares the refrigerant to pass through the condenser where it will release heat and change from a gas to a liquid. Without the compressor effectively raising the refrigerant's pressure, the entire refrigeration cycle would not function efficiently, leading to inadequate cooling.

While other components of the refrigeration system have different roles, they do not fulfill the specific function of increasing the pressure of the refrigerant, which is central to the operation of the refrigeration cycle.