What does evaporation do in a refrigeration system?

Evaporation in a refrigeration system plays a crucial role in the cooling process by absorbing heat from the environment. When the refrigerant evaporates, it changes from a liquid state to a gaseous state, during which it requires heat energy. This energy is drawn from the surrounding area, such as the air within a refrigerator or the space being cooled. As the refrigerant absorbs this heat, it effectively reduces the temperature of the environment, creating a cooling effect. This absorption of heat is foundational to the refrigeration cycle, facilitating the transfer of heat from one place to another, thereby helping maintain the desired low temperatures in refrigerated spaces.