When refrigerant, water, and oil are observed together, in what order do they settle in a container?

The correct order of settling for refrigerant, water, and oil in a container is based on their respective densities. Water is the densest of the three substances, followed by oil, and then refrigerant, which is generally the least dense.

When placed in a container, the water will settle at the bottom due to its higher density. Above the water, oil will rise because it is less dense than water, forming a layer on top of the water. Finally, the refrigerant, which is the least dense, will float on top of both the water and the oil.

This sequence—oil above water, and refrigerant above oil—is influenced by the physical properties of density and immiscibility. Understanding these principles is critical, particularly in the context of refrigeration systems, where proper separation of these fluids is vital for efficient operation and maintenance.