Where is the heat absorbed by the refrigerant in a refrigeration system?

In a refrigeration system, the refrigerant absorbs heat in the evaporator. The evaporator is a key component where the low-pressure liquid refrigerant enters and absorbs heat from the surroundings, typically from the medium to be cooled. This process transforms the refrigerant from a liquid state into a gas as it absorbs heat, which is essential for the refrigeration cycle to function.

The role of the evaporator is critical because it creates the cooling effect needed for refrigeration. As the refrigerant evaporates and changes states, it draws thermal energy from the environment, effectively lowering the temperature of the space being cooled. This absorption of heat within the evaporator is foundational to how refrigeration systems operate, making it the correct answer for this question.