A refrigerator is an essential household appliance designed for storing and preserving perishable food items and beverages at low temperatures to extend their shelf life. Operating on the principle of vapor compression refrigeration, refrigerators use a refrigerant that circulates through a closed system of coils. The compressor compresses the refrigerant, raising its temperature and pressure, before it passes through a condenser where it releases heat to the surroundings. As the refrigerant expands through an expansion valve, it cools down and absorbs heat from inside the refrigerator, cooling the interior. This cycle continues to maintain a consistent temperature inside the fridge, typically between 0°C and 5°C (32°F to 41°F) for optimal food preservation. Modern refrigerators come in various sizes and configurations, including top-freezer, bottom-freezer, side-by-side, and French door styles, offering features like adjustable shelves, humidity-controlled drawers, and energy-efficient operation to meet diverse consumer needs.