Which component is responsible for converting vapor back to liquid in a refrigeration cycle?

The component that converts vapor back to liquid in a refrigeration cycle is the condenser. In the refrigeration cycle, the refrigerant vapor flows into the condenser after being compressed by the compressor. When the vapor enters the condenser, it is subjected to cooling, often by air or water, which removes heat from the refrigerant. As the heat is extracted, the refrigerant vapor condenses back into a liquid state. This change from vapor to liquid is essential for the cycle to continue, allowing the refrigerant to return to the evaporator to absorb heat from the environment again.

The evaporator serves a different purpose by absorbing heat and enabling the refrigerant to vaporize, while the compressor is responsible for increasing the pressure of the refrigerant vapor. The expansion valve serves to reduce the pressure of the refrigerant liquid before it enters the evaporator, allowing it to absorb heat effectively. Understanding the distinct roles of these components is crucial for grasping how the refrigeration cycle operates.