What is the purpose of an evaporator coil in an air conditioning system?

The purpose of an evaporator coil in an air conditioning system is to absorb heat from the indoor air. As warm air from the indoor environment passes over the evaporator coil, the refrigerant inside the coil absorbs this heat. This process causes the refrigerant to evaporate and change from a liquid to a gas, effectively cooling the air before it is circulated back into the living space. This heat absorption is essential for the cooling process, allowing the air conditioning system to remove heat and lower the indoor temperature.

The evaporator coil is integral to the heat exchange process, serving its function in providing comfort by maintaining a desired indoor climate. In contrast to other components mentioned in the choices, the role of the evaporator coil is focused specifically on heat absorption and facilitating the cooling process within the air conditioning system.