The maximum voltage to ground in a townhouse or bungalow is? Select one:
a. 347 volt
b. 240 volt
c. 120 volt
d. 220 volt
e. 150 volt
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is c. 120 volt.
In residential buildings such as townhouses or bungalows in North America, the typical voltage to ground (or neutral) in standard electrical systems is 120 volts. This is the voltage used for common household appliances, lighting, and smaller electrical devices. The voltage from phase to neutral is generally 120 volts, and from phase to phase (or across two live wires), the voltage is 240 volts.
Most residential electrical systems are designed with a split-phase configuration, which means two 120-volt lines are provided, with a neutral wire in the middle. This setup allows for the delivery of both 120 volts for common household devices and 240 volts for larger appliances such as electric dryers, ovens, and air conditioning units. This split-phase system gives the benefit of both types of voltage within the same house while maintaining safety standards.
In contrast, voltages higher than 120 volts to ground, such as 220 volts or 240 volts, are typically used in larger appliances and specific industrial equipment. Therefore, while the total potential voltage in a home may be higher (240 volts across phases), the voltage to ground from a typical outlet is 120 volts.
In certain regions or countries, the standard voltages may vary slightly, and some regions may use 230 volts for general household purposes. However, the standard in most North American residential systems remains at 120 volts for ground voltage.