Hot line

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Figure 1. A labelled three-pronged outlet.

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:

References

  1. J. Andrews, A+ Guide to Hardware: Managing, Maintaining and Troubleshooting, 5th ed. Cengage Learning, 2009, pp.48-49
  2. 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