What type of heat does the refrigerant vapour give up first in the condenser?

The correct answer is sensible heat because, in a condenser, the refrigerant vapor first releases sensible heat as it cools down before it reaches the saturation point and begins to condense. Sensible heat refers to the heat energy that causes a change in temperature of the refrigerant without a change in its phase. As the vapor is cooled down, its temperature decreases, and it gives off sensible heat to its surroundings.

Once the refrigerant reaches its saturation temperature, further heat removal leads to the change of state from vapor to liquid, which involves the release of latent heat of condensation. The distinction is crucial: sensible heat is associated with temperature changes of the vapor, while latent heat is involved in the phase change during condensation. Understanding the flow of heat within the condenser is essential for effective power engineering practices, particularly in refrigeration and air conditioning systems.