According to enthalpy graphs, how does superheating affect compressor discharge temperature?

The relationship between superheating and compressor discharge temperature is rooted in thermodynamic principles. Superheating refers to the process of heating a vapor beyond its saturation temperature at a given pressure. In the context of a compressor, when the refrigerant is superheated before entering the compressor, it effectively raises its enthalpy.

Choosing the option that states each degree of superheat adds one degree of heat aligns with the fundamental understanding of how superheating works. As the temperature of the refrigerant increases beyond the saturation point, the additional energy input is reflected in the form of increased temperature. This results in a linear relationship where for every degree of superheat achieved, there is an equivalent increase in heat energy, translating directly into an increase in compressor discharge temperature.

The assumption here is also that the system operates within a certain range of conditions where this linear relationship holds true, which is common in many practical applications. Additional complexities may arise under varying operational conditions, but the fundamental concept remains that superheating enhances the energy content of the vapor, thus increasing the discharge temperature appropriately.

This reinforces the idea that understanding the thermodynamic behavior of refrigerants when subjected to various heating processes is essential for effective system design and management.