What is the role of the compressor in a refrigeration system?

The role of the compressor in a refrigeration system is fundamental to the refrigeration cycle. Its primary function is to compress the refrigerant vapor, which increases both its pressure and temperature. When the compressor takes in low-pressure refrigerant vapor from the evaporator, it reduces the volume of the refrigerant while simultaneously increasing its pressure. This process transforms the vapor into a high-pressure gas that can be sent to the condenser for heat rejection.

Understanding this function is crucial because it enables the refrigeration cycle to move forward. The compressor essentially acts as the engine of the system, enabling the circulation of refrigerant and the transfer of heat from inside a space to the outside. The effectiveness of the entire refrigeration system relies on the compressor's ability to maintain the pressure and flow of the refrigerant.

In contrast, other options describe functions that do not accurately represent the compressor's role. Creating a vacuum in the system is typically a function of the system design to prevent air and moisture contamination, while releasing heat from the system is the responsibility of the condenser. Filtering impurities is handled by filters or driers within the system, not the compressor itself. Thus, the compressor's critical action of compressing refrigerant vapor stands out as the essential process in the refrigeration cycle.