What does the term 'latent heat' refer to in refrigeration?

The term 'latent heat' specifically refers to the heat absorbed or released by a substance during a phase change without a change in temperature. This is a crucial concept in refrigeration because it is during these phase transitions, such as the change from liquid to gas (evaporation) or from gas to liquid (condensation), that the cooling and heating effects necessary for refrigeration systems are achieved.

In refrigeration cycles, for instance, the refrigerant absorbs latent heat when it evaporates in the evaporator coil, which cools the surrounding area. Conversely, when it condenses back into a liquid in the condenser, it releases latent heat. This process is essential for transferring heat from one area to another, helping to maintain lower temperatures in refrigerated spaces. Understanding latent heat is vital for designing and operating effective refrigeration systems.