In the refrigeration process, heat is transferred from the substance to be cooled to which lower temperature substance?

In the refrigeration process, heat is transferred from the substance that needs cooling to the refrigerant, which is specifically designed to absorb heat and facilitate the cooling effect. The refrigerant undergoes a phase change—from liquid to gas—while absorbing heat from the desired area, effectively lowering its temperature.

The refrigerant is typically part of a closed-loop system that includes various components such as compressors, evaporators, and condensers, which work together to move heat away from the cooled space. As the refrigerant absorbs heat, it becomes vaporized and is then compressed, raising its temperature and pressure before it releases the absorbed heat in the condenser and returns to its liquid state. This cycle allows for continuous cooling.

In contrast, while terms like coolant or chill agent might sound relevant, they aren’t as technically accurate in the context of how refrigeration systems function. For example, "coolant" can refer to any liquid or gas that absorbs heat but is not specifically tied to the refrigeration cycle. "Condensate" typically refers to liquid that forms from vapor, usually in the context of condensation, rather than being involved in the heat absorption process.