Final answer:
The NEC requires conductors and overcurrent devices for electric space heaters to be sized at 125% of the rated current, meaning option (a) (rated current) x (1.25) is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The National Electric Code (NEC) dictates safety standards for electrical installations to prevent hazards such as overheating and electrical fires. For electric space heaters, which are considered continuous load appliances, the conductors and overcurrent protective devices must be sized appropriately. According to NEC regulations, for continuous loads, the conductors and overcurrent protection must be sized at least 125% of the rated current of the appliance.
Given this information, the correct sizing for conductors and overcurrent devices for electric space heaters should be the rated current multiplied by 1.25. This ensures the system can handle the continuous demand without overheating, which aligns with the safety regulations that limit continuous use to no more than 80% of the breaker's capacity.
Therefore, the answer to the student's question is (a. (rated current) x (1.25)).