What is the primary function of a refrigeration compressor?

The primary function of a refrigeration compressor is to circulate the refrigerant and reduce its volume. This component plays a crucial role in the refrigeration cycle. By compressing the refrigerant, the compressor increases its pressure and temperature, allowing it to move through the system effectively. This process creates a pressure differential that enables the refrigerant to flow from the evaporator, where it absorbs heat, toward the condenser, where it releases that heat to the surroundings.

The reduction in volume of the refrigerant during compression is significant because it transforms a low-pressure vapor into a high-pressure vapor. This high-pressure refrigerant is essential for the system to operate efficiently and maintain the necessary heat exchange between the evaporator and condenser.

In contrast, other options do not accurately describe the main role of the compressor. While cooling the refrigerant is part of the refrigeration cycle, it is not the compressor's primary function. The expansion of the refrigerant is handled by the expansion valve, not the compressor. Maintaining a desired temperature is a result of the entire refrigeration system working together, not solely the compressor's function.