Describe the function of the refrigerator system with regard to the following terms:
The correct answer and explanation is:
The refrigerator system works based on the principles of thermodynamics to transfer heat from the inside of the refrigerator to the external environment, keeping the interior cool. The essential components of the system include the compressor, condenser, expansion valve (or capillary tube), and evaporator. Here’s an explanation of the function of the system based on those components:
- Compressor: The compressor is a pump that circulates refrigerant through the system. It compresses the refrigerant gas, increasing its pressure and temperature, which forces the refrigerant into the condenser coils located outside the refrigerator.
- Condenser: The condenser coils are responsible for releasing the heat absorbed from inside the refrigerator. As the high-pressure, hot refrigerant gas passes through the condenser, it cools down and condenses into a high-pressure liquid. The condenser is usually located at the back or the bottom of the refrigerator.
- Expansion Valve (or Capillary Tube): After the refrigerant has been condensed into a liquid, it passes through an expansion valve or capillary tube. This component reduces the pressure of the refrigerant, causing it to expand and cool rapidly. The refrigerant, now in its low-pressure liquid form, moves to the evaporator.
- Evaporator: The evaporator is located inside the refrigerator, typically inside the walls or freezer compartment. As the low-pressure refrigerant enters the evaporator coils, it begins to evaporate, absorbing heat from the refrigerator’s interior. This process cools down the air and food inside the refrigerator. The refrigerant, now a low-pressure gas, returns to the compressor to repeat the cycle.
In summary, the refrigerator system operates by circulating a refrigerant that changes from a gas to a liquid and back again, transferring heat from the inside of the refrigerator to the outside environment. The cycle ensures that the interior remains cool by constantly removing heat from it and maintaining a constant temperature.