What happens to the exhaust valve of a compressor during the intake stroke?

During the intake stroke of a compressor, the exhaust valve closes due to backpressure from the high side of the system. This backpressure prevents refrigerant from flowing back into the compressor during the intake phase.

As the piston moves down during the intake stroke, it creates a vacuum in the compressor's cylinder, allowing the refrigerant to enter through the intake valve. The exhaust valve, which is connected to the high-pressure side of the system, must remain closed to ensure that the higher pressure does not push refrigerant back into the cylinder. This action is vital to maintain the efficiency and effectiveness of the compressor in moving the refrigerant through the system, as any backflow would disrupt the refrigeration cycle.