Red Seal Automotive Service Technician Practice Exam

What is the function of an air conditioning compressor?

1. To dehumidify the air in the cabin

2. To compress refrigerant

3. To increase engine performance

4. To circulate coolant

The correct answer is: To compress refrigerant

The function of an air conditioning compressor is primarily to compress refrigerant. In the air conditioning system, the compressor takes in low-pressure refrigerant gas from the evaporator and compresses it into a high-pressure gas. This process of compression increases the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant, allowing it to subsequently flow through the system and release heat in the condenser before being sent back into the evaporator to cool the cabin air. While the compressor plays a vital role in the air conditioning system, it does not directly dehumidify the air in the cabin; rather, it enables the refrigerant to absorb heat and moisture from the air. Increasing engine performance and circulating coolant are functions associated with other components of the vehicle and are not related to the operation of the air conditioning compressor.