Where does condensation occur in the refrigeration cycle?

Condensation in the refrigeration cycle occurs in the condenser. The condenser's primary role is to remove heat from the refrigerant and allow it to change from a vapor to a liquid. As the high-pressure vapor refrigerant enters the condenser, it releases heat to a cooling medium, usually air or water, which causes the refrigerant to cool down and condense into a liquid state.

This process is essential for the refrigeration cycle because it allows the refrigerant to become pressurized and cooled before it returns to the evaporator to absorb heat from the environment. The efficiency of the refrigeration cycle heavily relies on the effective operation of the condenser, ensuring that the refrigerant condenses properly to maintain the cycle's performance.