Final answer:
In a 3 Phase wye or star configuration, the 3 hot conductors each have a 120-degree phase difference, with the neutral wire providing a zero-volt return path. Safety is enhanced by features such as grounding and GFCI protection.
Step-by-step explanation:
All 3 hot conductors of a 3 Phase wye / star configuration have a 120-degree phase difference. In this type of system, each conductor carries a current that is ideally 120 electrical degrees out of phase with the currents in the other conductors. This configuration is frequently used because it provides a consistent power delivery and the ability to support both three-phase and single-phase devices. The neutral wire, which is connected to the earth at both the voltage source and the user's location, serves as a zero-volt return path and provides an alternate path for the current through the earth. Several safety features are inherent in these systems, including a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) that prevents shock by detecting loss of current to unintentional paths.