Which component is responsible for converting vapor refrigerant to liquid refrigerant?

The component responsible for converting vapor refrigerant to liquid refrigerant is the condenser. In the refrigeration cycle, the refrigerant vapor, which has absorbed heat from the environment (usually via the evaporator), enters the condenser. Here, the refrigerant is cooled, typically by air or water, which causes it to release the heat it has absorbed. As a result, the refrigerant changes phase from a vapor to a liquid through a process known as condensation. This is essential for the refrigeration cycle to continue, as the liquid refrigerant needs to be returned to the evaporator to absorb heat again and maintain the cooling process.

The other components function differently: the expansion valve reduces pressure and temperature of the refrigerant before it enters the evaporator, the evaporator is where the refrigerant absorbs heat and changes state from liquid to vapor, and the compressor pumps the vapor refrigerant and increases its pressure, preparing it for the condenser. Each component has a distinct role, but the specific function of converting vapor to liquid is uniquely performed by the condenser.