Recreational Vehicle (RV) Technician Practice Test

Which wire typically represents the 'ground' in a 120V electrical setup?

1. Black wire

2. White wire

3. Green wire

4. Red wire

The correct answer is: Green wire

In a 120V electrical setup, the wire that typically represents the 'ground' is the green wire. Ground wires are essential for safety, providing a pathway for electrical current to return to the ground in case of a fault. This helps prevent electric shocks and damage to appliances or other equipment. The green wire is specifically coded for safety purposes, allowing technicians to quickly identify it as the ground. While the black wire is usually the hot wire and the white wire is commonly used as the neutral wire, the distinct color coding for ground (green or sometimes bare) helps ensure that safety protocols are easily followed in electrical installations. Red wires can be used as hot wires in certain configurations but do not serve as ground. Understanding this color coding is crucial for anyone working with electrical systems in recreational vehicles to ensure proper and safe connections.