Final answer:
A reciprocating heat pump compressor differs from a light duty A/C compressor in that it transfers energy by heat from a colder environment to a warmer environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
A reciprocating heat pump compressor differs from a light duty A/C compressor in that it uses work to transfer energy by heat from a colder environment to a warmer environment. Unlike a light duty A/C compressor, which cools something down in a warm environment, a heat pump compressor reverses the direction of heat transfer to warm the room in cool weather. This is achieved by using a working fluid, such as a refrigerant, and a set of basic components including the evaporator, condenser, expansion valve, and compressor.