What process takes place in the evaporator?

In the evaporator, the process that occurs is the absorption of heat by the refrigerant leading to its evaporation. When the refrigerant enters the evaporator as a low-pressure liquid, it absorbs heat from the surrounding environment or the space that needs to be cooled. This heat absorption causes the refrigerant to change phase from a liquid to a vapor, effectively removing heat from the area and cooling it. The key aspect of this process is that it utilizes the latent heat of vaporization: the energy required for the refrigerant to transition from a liquid to a gas without a rise in temperature, which is essential for effective cooling.

The function of the evaporator is vital in the refrigeration cycle, as it allows for the heat exchange necessary to provide cooling. Without this process, the refrigeration system would not be able to effectively absorb and transfer heat away from the desired space.