What term describes the process of reducing the refrigerant volume to increase pressure?

The term that describes the process of reducing the refrigerant volume to increase pressure is compression. In a refrigeration cycle, compression is a vital step that happens within the compressor. As the refrigerant enters the compressor, it is subjected to a decrease in volume, which causes an increase in pressure and temperature. This high-pressure refrigerant then continues through the system, playing a crucial role in the heat exchange process.

The other processes mentioned—expansion, condensation, and evaporation—serve different functions in the refrigeration cycle. Expansion refers to the process where the refrigerant is allowed to expand, which causes a decrease in pressure. Condensation occurs when the refrigerant transitions from a gas to a liquid state, releasing heat in the process. Evaporation is when the refrigerant absorbs heat and changes from liquid to gas. Each of these processes is essential for the overall operation of a refrigeration system, but compression specifically deals with increasing the pressure of the refrigerant by reducing its volume.