Red Seal Appliance Service Technician Practice Exam

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

1. To absorb heat from the indoor air

2. To cool the refrigerant

3. To compress and circulate refrigerant through the system

4. To convert gas to liquid

The correct answer is: To compress and circulate refrigerant through the system

The compressor plays a critical role in the refrigeration cycle by compressing and circulating refrigerant through the system. Its primary function is to take in low-pressure refrigerant gas and compress it to a high-pressure gas. This increase in pressure also elevates the temperature of the refrigerant, allowing it to move through the various components of the refrigeration system effectively. Once the refrigerant is compressed, it is sent to the condenser, where it releases heat and changes from a gas to a liquid. This process is essential for maintaining the refrigeration cycle, as it ensures that the refrigerant continues to flow through the system, absorbing heat from the indoor environment and providing cooling. The choices relating to absorbing heat, cooling the refrigerant, or converting gas to liquid describe other functions and components in the refrigeration cycle but do not pertain to the main purpose of the compressor. Hence, the role of the compressor is crucial for maintaining the proper functioning of the refrigeration system by enabling the circulation and compression of the refrigerant.