Final answer:
A polarized plug features a narrower slot designated for the neutral wire, which is frequently color-coded white in electrical systems. These plugs fit only one way in a three-hole outlet to maintain proper wiring connections and adherence to local electrical code requirements.
Step-by-step explanation:
A polarized plug has a narrower slot for the white wire, which is the neutral wire in electrical systems. The standard three-hole outlet is designed such that a polarized plug can only be inserted one way, ensuring the correct function of the three-wire system. While the insulation color-coding for live/hot, neutral, and ground wires may vary globally, in many regions including North America, the neutral wire is typically white. The neutral slot on an outlet is usually the wider of the two blade slots, and it connects to the white wire.
These color coding standards are important for safely installing and servicing electrical components. It's essential to refer to local regulations to confirm the accurate color-coding for live/hot and neutral wires, with the ground wire commonly being green, yellow, or bare.
Note that polarization in electrical wiring differs from the concept of polarization in materials as described in the context of Polaroid filters, where polarization refers to the orientation of an electromagnetic wave's electric field.