Which of the following best describes the function of a compressor in air conditioning?

Study for the USCG Third Assistant Engineer (3/AE) Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The function of a compressor in an air conditioning system is to compress refrigerant gas, which enables effective cooling. When the refrigerant is in a gas state, the compressor increases its pressure and temperature. This high-pressure gas then moves to the condenser, where it releases heat and transforms into a liquid state. By compressing the refrigerant, the compressor plays a crucial role in the refrigeration cycle, allowing the system to absorb heat from the indoor environment and expel it outside, effectively cooling the interior space.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary role of the compressor. For example, filtering incoming air is typically handled by air filters, not the compressor. The vaporization of refrigerant occurs in the evaporator coil and is a separate process essential for heat exchange. Lastly, while expelling warm air may be a process that happens in an air conditioning system, it’s primarily the function of the condenser, not the compressor itself. Thus, the correct answer accurately describes the role of the compressor in the overall cooling process.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy