HOLT Electricians Practice Exam

Which conductor of flexible cords must have a continuous marker distinguishing it from the others?

1. Hot conductor

2. Grounded conductor

3. Neutral conductor

4. Mechanical conductor

The correct answer is: Grounded conductor

The grounded conductor, commonly referred to as the neutral conductor, must have a continuous marker to distinguish it from other conductors in a flexible cord. This identification is crucial for safety and ensuring the correct connection in electrical systems. The grounded conductor is typically marked with a specific color (usually white or light grey) and required to be clearly distinguishable to prevent accidental connections that could create hazardous conditions or electrical shock. This marking aids electricians and anyone working with or around electrical systems to quickly identify the neutral conductor, thus promoting safe practices when troubleshooting or making connections. In contrast, while hot conductors may also have specific color codes for identification, the code requires a unique continuous marker specifically for the grounded conductor. Mechanical conductors are not a standard classification in electrical wiring, which further clarifies why the grounded conductor's distinct marking is essential for safe electrical work.