The difference between ground and neutral.
Ground and neutral are two types of wires commonly used in power systems, and there are some distinct differences between them. First of all, the ground wire refers to the wire that is connected to the ground, while the neutral wire refers to the wire that is connected to the neutral point. Secondly, the voltage and current characteristics of the ground and neutral wires are also different.
The ground wire is a kind of protective wire, and its main function is to introduce the electrostatic charge of the electrical equipment shell into the ground to avoid excessive electrostatic charge accumulation leading to equipment damage or personnel electric shock accidents. The ground wire has a large cross-sectional area, usually thicker than the live and neutral wires, so it has a small resistance and is able to ensure that the current passes through quickly.
In contrast, the role of the neutral line is to bring the current on the live wire to the neutral point, keeping the power system in balance. In the power system, the neutral point refers to the point where the phase of the three-phase alternating current is equal. Since the neutral wire is connected to the neutral point, it has a zero potential, unlike the ground wire. Under normal circumstances, the current on the neutral line is equal to the current on the live wire, but when the three-phase current is unbalanced, the current on the neutral line is not zero.
In addition to the difference in voltage and current characteristics, the installation and use of ground and neutral wires are also different. The ground wire is mainly used to protect electrical equipment from electrostatic charges, so it is usually installed on the outside of the equipment. The neutral line, on the other hand, runs through the entire power system, from the transformer to the consumer, so it is usually installed inside the equipment.
In conclusion, both ground and neutral wires are commonly used wires in power systems, but they differ in their role, voltage and current characteristics, and installation and use. Understanding the difference between ground and neutral can help us better understand the operation and maintenance of the power system.