What is the main difference between a compression system and an absorption cooling system?

The main distinction between a compression system and an absorption cooling system lies in the mechanism used for refrigeration. Absorption cooling systems utilize a heat source to drive the cooling cycle, which creates a pressure differential. This process involves the use of an absorbent and refrigerant combination, where the absorbent absorbs the refrigerant vapor, and then through heat application (often from a gas burner or waste heat), the refrigerant is evaporated and condensed, allowing for cooling.

In contrast, compression systems rely on mechanical energy—specifically, a compressor to increase the pressure of the refrigerant. This difference in operation highlights how absorption systems can utilize heat rather than mechanical energy, which leads to variations in efficiency and application suitability.

The other options do not accurately capture the primary functional difference:

• While some compression systems may use gas, they are not exclusive to using gas or any specific refrigerant type.

• Compression systems are generally more energy efficient due to their direct conversion of electrical energy into mechanical work, often outperforming absorption systems that can have higher operational costs due to heat input.

• The requirement for a liquid refrigerant is common in both types of systems; however, it does not differentiate between them effectively.

Understanding this distinction emphasizes the unique operating principles that shape