In what way do evaporators function within refrigeration systems?

Evaporators play a crucial role in refrigeration systems by converting liquid refrigerant into a gas through the absorption of heat. This process is fundamental to how refrigeration works. When the liquid refrigerant enters the evaporator, it absorbs heat from the surrounding environment—such as the air in a refrigerator or the interior of a building—causing it to evaporate and transform into a gas. This heat absorption lowers the temperature in the area being cooled, effectively removing heat from the space.

The transformation of refrigerant from liquid to gas is essential for effectively transferring heat from one location (the space to be cooled) to another (the external environment). This process also helps maintain the desired temperature within the refrigeration system by continuously cycling refrigerant, allowing it to absorb heat and facilitate cooling. The efficiency of this heat absorption process highlights the evaporator's primary function in refrigeration, making the correct answer clear.