Final answer:
An accumulator prevents liquid refrigerant from entering the compressor by separating any liquid refrigerant from the suction line before it reaches the compressor.
Step-by-step explanation:
An accumulator prevents liquid refrigerant from entering the compressor. The main function of an accumulator is to store excess liquid refrigerant that is not immediately needed by the evaporator. It helps to separate any liquid refrigerant from the suction line before it reaches the compressor, ensuring that only gaseous refrigerant enters the compressor.