Which of the following best defines a grounded conductor?

Which of the following best defines a grounded conductor?

• A. A conductor that is never energized
• B. A system conductor that is intentionally grounded
• C. A conductor used only for signaling
• D. A path for electrical current under fault conditions

Answer: (B)

A grounded conductor is best defined as a system conductor that is intentionally grounded. This means that the conductor is connected to the earth or to a conductive body that serves as a ground reference point. The purpose of grounding a conductor is to provide a safe path for electrical current, particularly in case of a fault, to help prevent electric shock hazards, equipment damage, or fire. Grounding ensures that the conductor can effectively dissipate excess electrical energy, allowing protective devices like circuit breakers to operate correctly. The other options describe characteristics that do not align with the definition of a grounded conductor. For instance, a conductor that is never energized does not serve a functional role in an electrical system. A conductor used only for signaling does not imply that it serves the purpose of being grounded for safety. Additionally, while a path for electrical current under fault conditions is related to grounding practices, it does not specifically define a grounded conductor on its own; rather, it highlights an aspect of grounded systems. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the intentional grounding of the conductor itself, which is critical for safety and the proper functioning of electrical installations.

A grounded conductor is best defined as a system conductor that is intentionally grounded. This means that the conductor is connected to the earth or to a conductive body that serves as a ground reference point. The purpose of grounding a conductor is to provide a safe path for electrical current, particularly in case of a fault, to help prevent electric shock hazards, equipment damage, or fire. Grounding ensures that the conductor can effectively dissipate excess electrical energy, allowing protective devices like circuit breakers to operate correctly.

The other options describe characteristics that do not align with the definition of a grounded conductor. For instance, a conductor that is never energized does not serve a functional role in an electrical system. A conductor used only for signaling does not imply that it serves the purpose of being grounded for safety. Additionally, while a path for electrical current under fault conditions is related to grounding practices, it does not specifically define a grounded conductor on its own; rather, it highlights an aspect of grounded systems. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the intentional grounding of the conductor itself, which is critical for safety and the proper functioning of electrical installations.