What is the difference between Live, Neutral and Earth Wires?

Last updated at April 16, 2024 by

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In the circuit, these three wires look like

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Live Wire

Neutral Wire

Earth Wire

Live wire is connected directly to the generators of the power station

Neutral wire returns the electricity to the generators by completing the circuit

Earth wire doesn't carry electricity, it is used to prevent people from getting electric shocks 
Voltage of Live Wire is same as that main supply (in India 220V) Voltage of neutral wire is approximately 0 V Since Earth Wire is not connected to electricity, its voltage is 0
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Maninder Singh

CA Maninder Singh is a Chartered Accountant for the past 14 years and a teacher from the past 18 years. He teaches Science, Economics, Accounting and English at Teachoo