In which component does the refrigerant absorb heat?

The refrigerant absorbs heat in the evaporator. This component is designed to facilitate the cooling process by allowing the refrigerant to evaporate. As the refrigerant enters the evaporator, it is in a low-pressure, low-temperature state. In this section, the refrigerant absorbs heat from the surrounding environment, such as air or water, which raises its temperature and changes it from a liquid to a gas. This heat exchange is crucial for cooling spaces, as it draws heat away from the area being refrigerated, effectively lowering the temperature.

The evaporator's function is critical in a refrigeration cycle because it is where the actual cooling effect takes place. Understanding this role helps in grasping the broader context of how refrigeration systems operate, highlighting the importance of heat absorption for maintaining desired temperatures in various applications.