In a typical refrigeration cycle, vapor leaving the compressor is higher in pressure than entering.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. It depends
• D. Not always

Answer: (A)

In a vapor-compression refrigeration cycle, the purpose of the compressor is to do work on the refrigerant vapor, raising its pressure (and temperature) so it can reject heat in the condenser and continue the cycle. The vapor that leaves the compressor is therefore at a higher pressure than the vapor entering it. This higher-pressure, high-temperature vapor then flows to the condenser to release heat and later to the expansion device and evaporator to absorb heat. Even in more complex setups (like multi-stage or turbo compressors), the outlet pressure remains higher than the inlet. So the statement is true.