Final answer:
In a flat multiconductor cable sized 4 AWG or larger, the grounded conductor is typically identified by white or gray insulation. The grounding wire may be green, yellow, or bare. The National Electrical Code (NEC) sets the standards for conductor identification to ensure safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a flat multiconductor cable sized 4 AWG or larger, the grounded conductor (often referred to as the neutral) is typically identified by a white or gray insulation covering. This standard helps to ensure that wiring is done consistently and safely, providing a visual cue for the purposes of installation and maintenance. According to the National Electrical Code (NEC), which outlines the requirements for safe electrical installations, the identification of conductors is critical. For example, in the context of a three-hole outlet, the standard three-prong plug design leverages this color coding to assure the proper function of the three-wire system, which includes a live/hot, neutral, and ground wire.
The grounding wire, meanwhile, can be green, yellow, or a bare wire without insulation. Grounding is essential for safety, as it allows a conductor to be fixed at zero volts by connecting it to the earth with a good conductor. The purpose of grounding is to protect against electrical shock by providing a safe path for electric current to follow in the event of a fault.