Question
Which of the following conditions will cause a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to disconnect AC power?
Answer Options
- A) Current flowing from one or more of the hot wires to the neutral wire
- B) Current flowing from one or more of the hot wires directly to ground
- C) Overvoltage on the hot wires
- D) All these choices are correct
Correct Answer: B
Explanation
A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a specialized safety device designed to detect leakage current that flows outside of the normal circuit path (hot and neutral). It is sensitive to extremely small differences in current between the hot and neutral wires.
A GFCI is specifically designed to disconnect AC power if it detects current flowing from one or more of the hot wires directly to ground. This often happens when a person accidentally touches a hot wire or a faulty appliance, creating a dangerous ‘ground fault’ through the person’s body. The GFCI trips rapidly to prevent electrocution.
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