The neutral wire and ground wire serve distinct purposes in household electrical systems, with the neutral wire carrying current and the ground wire providing safety. Interchanging these wires is unsafe, as the ground wire is not designed to carry continuous current and can overheat if used improperly. The neutral wire is part of the circuit, while the ground wire is meant to protect against faults. Although they may be at the same potential, using them interchangeably poses significant safety risks and violates electrical codes. Proper adherence to wiring standards is essential for safety and functionality.