Hot line
A hot line (also known as a phase line) is a wire in the latter stages of the distribution grid (like inside your house) that has a non-zero average voltage relative to the Earth (also called ground), as opposed to neutral lines, which are ideally at ground potential.[1] Since hot lines carry electricity that has a high potential energy, they are shock hazards. Many electrical devices minimize this risk by taking advantage of polarized electrical outlets (see figure 1) to ensure that the on/off switch is on the hot line, effectively limiting the length of the hot line, which minimizes the risk of shock as only a relatively small segment of the wiring (the wire before the switch, as opposed to the whole device) is considered "hot" when the circuit is open.[2]
For a more in depth discussion, including circuit diagrams please see All about circuits.
For Further Reading
For further information please see the related pages below:
- Electrical transmission
- Electrical grid
- Electrical generation
- Distribution grid
- Electrical outlet
- Or explore a random page!
References
- ↑ J. Andrews, A+ Guide to Hardware: Managing, Maintaining and Troubleshooting, 5th ed. Cengage Learning, 2009, pp.48-49
- ↑ D. Lowe. Alternating Current in Electronics: Hot, Neutral, and Ground Wires [Online]. Available:http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/alternating-current-in-electronics-hot-neutral-and.html