What color wire is typically used for ground in most electrical systems?

In most electrical systems, the color green or bare copper is universally accepted as the standard designation for ground wires. This color coding convention is crucial for safety and identification purposes. Ground wires serve a vital role in electrical systems by providing a safe pathway for stray electrical current to return to the ground, preventing electric shock or fire hazards.

The use of green or bare copper ensures that anyone working with or around the electrical system can easily identify the ground connection. This is particularly important during maintenance or installation, where mixing up wires can lead to dangerous consequences.

Comparatively, other colors such as black, red, and white are used for different purposes in the wiring system. Black is typically reserved for hot wires in AC circuits, red may also signify a secondary hot wire or a switched wire in specific applications, and white is customarily used for neutral wires. Therefore, understanding the significance of color-coding in electrical systems is critical for safety and proper function, making green or bare copper the appropriate choice for grounding purposes.