nu-trel wahy-er
noun
A wire with no electrical current running through it.
Example usage: Make sure to connect the neutral wire to the circuit.
Most used in: Electrician and construction circles.
Most used by: Electricians, plumbers, and other trades people.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 3/10
Also see: Ground Wire, Neutral Conductor, Equiptment Grounding Conductor, Bonding Wire,
What is a Neutral Wire in Electrical Construction?
In electrical construction, a neutral wire is a type of electrical wiring for delivering electricity from the power source to the various electrical devices and appliances in the home or building. It is typically identified by its white color and is usually connected to the ground wire or the earth.
The neutral wire carries the current back to the source, usually a transformer or generator, and is used to balance the circuit. Without the neutral wire, the electricity would not be able to complete its circuit, and the electrical devices would not be able to operate.
In the United States, the neutral wire is typically connected to the ground wire at the main service panel. This helps ensure the safety of the home or building by providing a pathway for any excess electricity to travel to the ground. According to the National Electrical Code, this connection is mandatory for all modern electrical systems.
Neutral wires are an important component of any electrical system, and it is important for electricians to understand how they work in order to properly install and maintain them. According to the United States Department of Energy, about 25% of all electricity used in the US is for residential use, so the importance of a safe and properly functioning neutral wire cannot be overstated.
.The History of the Neutral Wire
The term “neutral wire” was first coined in 1882 by British engineer and physicist, Sir Joseph Swan. It was used to describe the wire that ran between the power source and the electrical appliance.
In the early days of electricity, most appliances used a single wire for power. This single wire was connected to the power source and ran directly to the appliance. As electrical appliances became more advanced and safety became a priority, the single wire was replaced by two wires. One of the wires was the “live” wire, which carried the electricity, while the other was the “neutral” wire, which was grounded and carried no current.
The term “neutral wire” quickly became a standard in the electrical industry and is still used today. It is used to refer to the wire that is grounded and carries no current, and is an important component of any electrical system. The neutral wire is used to protect against electrical shock and to ensure that the appliance is safely powered.
