What is the function of the compressor in an A/C system?

• A. To release heat into the atmosphere
• B. To absorb heat from the indoor air
• C. To compress refrigerant gas to increase its pressure and temperature
• D. To cool the indoor air

Answer: (C)

The function of the compressor in an A/C system is to compress refrigerant gas to increase its pressure and temperature. This process is essential for the refrigerant cycle, as it allows the refrigerant to circulate through the system. By compressing the gas, the compressor raises the refrigerant’s pressure, which in turn increases its thermal energy—making it become a hot, high-pressure gas.

Once the refrigerant has been compressed, it moves to the condenser where it releases the heat it absorbed from inside the building into the outside air, transitioning from a gas back to a liquid state. This cycle is crucial for the effective operation of an A/C system, facilitating the removal of heat from indoor spaces. While the other options describe functions related to the A/C system, they do not accurately define the primary role of the compressor itself.