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Most refrigerators use the freezing compartment to cool the refrigerating compartment as well. Most refrigerators place the freezing compartment on top because

A) it lowers the center of mass of the refrigerator.
B) ice freezes easier at a higher elevation.
C) because warm air in the compartment below will rise by convection to be cooled.
D) it is cheaper to manufacture

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Most refrigerators place the freezing compartment on top because C) because warm air in the compartment below will rise by convection to be cooled.

Why is the freezing compartment on top?

Placing the freezing compartment on top allows for natural convection currents to occur within the refrigerator. Cold air is denser than warm air, so when the freezing compartment is at the top, cold air naturally sinks from the freezing compartment into the refrigerating compartment below, cooling it.

As the air in the refrigerating compartment warms up, it rises back into the freezing compartment, creating a natural circulation of air that helps maintain even temperatures throughout the refrigerator. This design is more energy-efficient and helps ensure that both the freezing and refrigerating compartments are adequately cooled.

User Himanshu Sheoran
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