Which component removes heat from the refrigerant and which allows it to take on heat?

The condenser and evaporator serve crucial but distinct roles in the refrigeration cycle. The condenser is designed to remove heat from the refrigerant as it transitions from a gas to a liquid. During this process, the refrigerant releases heat into the surrounding environment, typically aided by air or water circulation. This is essential for cooling down the refrigerant so that it can efficiently cycle back into the system.

On the other hand, the evaporator is where the refrigerant takes on heat. As the low-pressure refrigerant enters the evaporator in liquid form, it absorbs heat from the surrounding environment (like the interior of a refrigerator or an air-conditioned space), causing the refrigerant to evaporate into a gas. This heat absorption is vital as it contributes to the cooling effect experienced in the space requiring refrigeration.

Thus, the correct relationship is that the condenser removes heat from the refrigerant, while the evaporator allows the refrigerant to take on heat. Understanding this function is essential for comprehending how air conditioning and refrigeration systems operate effectively.