In refrigeration systems, what is primarily stored in the compressor?

In refrigeration systems, the compressor primarily stores vapor refrigerant. The role of the compressor is to compress the refrigerant vapor, increasing its pressure and temperature before it is sent to the condenser. This process is crucial for circulating the refrigerant through the system to absorb heat from the environment and provide cooling.

Unlike liquids, which may be stored in other components like the evaporator or receiver, the compressor operates on the principle of compressing gases. As the refrigerant vapor enters the compressor, it reduces in volume and its pressure increases, which is essential for the refrigeration cycle to function efficiently. Therefore, the correct choice emphasizes the function and operation of the compressor in a refrigeration system.

Storing liquid refrigerant would not be suitable for the compressor's design and operation, as it needs to handle gas to create the necessary compression. Similarly, oil and water are not the primary contents of the compressor; oil serves as a lubricant necessary for the efficient operation of the compressor, while water is irrelevant in this context.