When a refrigerant is compressed and condensed, it undergoes a specific process in a refrigeration system. The correct answer to the question is:
A. It condenses back into a liquid, giving up heat to the outside air.
Here's a step-by-step explanation:
1. Compression: When a refrigerant is compressed, it is typically in a gaseous state. The compressor in the refrigeration system increases the pressure of the refrigerant, causing it to become highly compressed.
2. Condensation: As the compressed refrigerant moves through the condenser, it releases heat to the outside air. This heat exchange causes the refrigerant to cool down and condense from a gas into a liquid state.
3. Liquid State: In its condensed liquid state, the refrigerant is now at a high pressure and temperature. It is ready to be further processed in the refrigeration system to absorb heat from the desired area.
In summary, when a refrigerant is compressed and condensed, it transforms from a gaseous state to a liquid state, releasing heat to the outside air. This condensed liquid refrigerant can then continue its journey through the system to absorb heat from the desired area, contributing to the cooling process.