🔍 Key Concepts

• Basic refrigeration cycle: evaporator → compressor → condenser → expansion device • Effect of pressure on refrigerant temperature and phase (liquid vs vapor) • Why liquid entering a compressor is dangerous (liquid slugging)

💭 Think About

• At the outlet of the evaporator, what phase is the refrigerant supposed to be in just before it reaches the compressor? • Does a compressor raise or lower the pressure of the refrigerant, and what does that tell you about the pressure of the refrigerant at its inlet? • Which phase (liquid or vapor) can be safely compressed without damaging the compressor?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify whether the compressor is designed to handle vapor or liquid at its inlet • Decide if the pressure at the compressor inlet should be higher or lower than at its discharge • Eliminate any options that would cause liquid refrigerant to enter the compressor (risk of damage)