Electrical Systems & Wiring Flashcards
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Read the first 7 Electrical Systems & Wiring flashcards as text
Which wire gauge is rated for 20-ampere branch circuits in residential wiring per NEC standards?
Answer: 12 AWG
12 AWG copper wire is the minimum size required for 20-ampere branch circuits under NEC Article 310.
What is the purpose of a GFCI outlet in a bathroom electrical circuit?
Answer: Protect against ground faults that can cause electrocution
A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) detects imbalances in current flow and trips within milliseconds to prevent electrocution.
In a standard 120V residential circuit, what color is typically used for the neutral wire?
Answer: White or gray
NEC requires neutral conductors to be identified by white or gray insulation in standard residential wiring.
What does the term 'ampacity' refer to in electrical wiring?
Answer: The maximum current a conductor can carry without exceeding its temperature rating
Ampacity is the maximum current a conductor can continuously carry under specified conditions without damage.
Which type of circuit breaker protects against both overloads and arc faults?
Answer: AFCI breaker
An AFCI (Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter) breaker detects dangerous arc faults caused by damaged or loose wiring that standard breakers cannot sense.
What is the correct method for connecting two conductors in a junction box?
Answer: Twist them together and cover with a wire nut or approved connector
NEC requires splices in junction boxes to be made with listed connectors such as wire nuts, and the box must remain accessible.
How many conductors are typically found in a standard residential 120V branch circuit cable (Romex)?
Answer: 3
Standard NM cable (Romex) for 120V circuits contains 3 conductors: a hot (black), neutral (white), and bare ground wire.