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Phys988
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Why the neutral wire (the cold) does not cause an electric shock?
Phys988 said:Why the neutral wire (the cold) does not cause an electric shock?
Mike Cookson said:In a properly balanced power distribution system the neutral should have no current flowing through it, also it is often grounded.
Mike Cookson said:You are talking of the other use of the word neutral where it is the cable that links back to the grid.
Nope.Danger said:That's for regular domestic stuff, though. Fancier industrial systems such as 3-phase might have different terms that I'm unaware of.
russ_watters said:Nope.
Danger said:I assume from your use of the word 'earthed' that you're British. Here, there isn't more than one use of the word 'neutral'. Black is hot, white is system neutral, and green is ground (earth). That's for regular domestic stuff, though. Fancier industrial systems such as 3-phase might have different terms that I'm unaware of.
A neutral wire is an electrical wire that carries the return current from a load back to the power source. It is typically colored white and is connected to the neutral bus bar in an electrical panel.
The neutral wire is grounded at the electrical panel, meaning it is connected to the earth through a ground wire. This allows excess current to flow safely into the ground rather than through a person's body, preventing electric shock.
While the neutral wire itself does not carry a dangerous amount of current, it can still be dangerous if it is not connected properly. If the neutral wire becomes disconnected or damaged, it can cause an imbalance in the electrical system and lead to electric shock.
The neutral wire is part of the electrical circuit and carries the return current, while the ground wire is a safety feature that provides an alternate path for excess current to flow into the ground. The ground wire is typically colored green or bare copper.
It is not recommended to touch any electrical wires, including the neutral wire, without proper training and safety precautions. While the neutral wire carries a lower amount of current, it can still cause injury if not handled properly.