Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A grounding wire is a conductive path that connects an electrical device or system to the ground, providing a safe route for excess electrical energy to dissipate.
Related terms
Electrical Potential Energy: The amount of work needed to move an electric charge from one point to another.
Circuit Breaker: An automatic switch that interrupts the flow of electricity when there is excessive current or short circuit.
Lightning Rod: A metal rod installed on tall structures to protect them from lightning strikes by providing a path for lightning's electrical discharge into the ground.