Which of the following is not a function of the refrigeration compressor?

In the context of refrigeration systems, the primary function of the compressor is to compress the refrigerant vapor, thereby increasing its pressure and temperature. This process enables the refrigerant to release the absorbed heat in the condenser, which is an essential step in the refrigeration cycle.

When evaluating the choices, the function that is not associated with the refrigeration compressor is the removal of energy from the vapor. Instead, the compressor actually adds energy to the refrigerant vapor through mechanical work, which is essential for moving the refrigerant through the system and converting it into a liquid state in the condenser.

The other options relate directly to important roles within the refrigeration system. The compressor does indeed circulate the refrigerant by maintaining fluid flow through the various components of the system. Additionally, it increases the pressure of the refrigerant, which is a critical function that enables the cycle to operate efficiently. The compressor does not maintain the temperature of the refrigerant; rather, it adjusts the temperature by pressurizing the vapor.

In summary, the correct indication that the function of removing energy from the vapor does not belong to the compressor aligns with its role of compressing and circulating the refrigerant within the refrigeration cycle.