The scientific principle behind how a refrigerator actually works is quite basic. The refrigerator uses the evaporation of a liquid to absorb heat. This liquid is often known as the refrigerant, and when used in the refrigerator, evaporates at a fairly low temperature. This causes the cold temperatures within. It is based on physics, and the 2nd law of thermodynamics. A liquid is vaporized through compression, which requires kinetic energy. This draws the energy needed from the direct area; causing a loss in energy and then it becomes cooler. The simple parts of a refrigerator include the compressor, two sets of heat exchanging pipes, an expansive valve, and the refrigerant. The refrigerant is almost always ammonia because it evaporates fast. All in all, the primary means of refrigeration is the rapid expansion of gases that are caused by cooling. The second law basically states that heat can only flow from warmer bodies to colder bodies. If not, then from a substance at a certain temperature to a temperature that is lower. This summarizes the general idea on how a refrigerator works.
Economics has affected the way this device is used in several ways. A refrigerator is an essential item in almost every household today. As more are marketed, there is a demand for better quality, better efficiency, and more modern refrigerators. They are used to not only store leftovers, but pre-cooked meals as well. Human culture has evolved greatly around refrigerators. A lot of stress can develop if both parents in a family are working and there is no one to prepare a meal. However, with refrigerators, only simple planning is required. Society now demands refrigerators, the more advanced, the better. Ice crushers, ice and water dispensers are now very popular additions to these devices. When it comes to refrigerators, almost everyone is seeking for all of these extra additions and requirements. On the other side, politicians may pass policies, restricting technology and as a result, fridges may not be produced to the optimal level. Nevertheless the production and popularity of these devices keeps on climbing high.
Unfortunately, health problems also arrive with refrigerators. Food that is not kept at an exact temperature can spoil and harbor bacteria. This may lead to food poisoning which is not only uncomfortable, but highly threatening to young children and
elders with weaker immune systems. This can be controlled by keeping a regular check on perishable foods and the temperature of the fridge. CFC’s are also sometimes used refrigerators as a cooling factor. This causes an environmental problem as CFC’s have been known to help contribute to global warming. The ethical situation is to weigh the pros and cons of the device, for the downsides are just as important to consider.
Refrigerators can link to health, social, and environment areas of interaction. A fridge makes life a bit easier for almost everyone and allows less time consumption in preparing a meal. Health wise, it prevents food from spoiling and gives it a longer life. Environmentally, it appears to be quite safe and does not require an incredibly large amount of electricity.
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Bibliography
1) Author Unknown, About.com Date viewed: April 14th, 2004
2.) Author Unknown, A link from About.com Date viewed: April 14th, 2004
3.) Author Unknown, CBS news story from cbsnews.com
Date viewed: April 15th, 2004