Final answer:
The current from an energized wire in contact with the ground disperses in all directions from the point of contact due to the ground acting as a conductor with immense capacity to absorb charge.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an energized wire comes into contact with the ground, the correct answer is C. flows in all directions from point of contact. This is because the ground acts as a conductor and allows the electrical current to disperse into the earth. It's important to understand that the ground has a practically infinite capacity to absorb charge, which leads to the dispersal of current in all directions.
Understanding this concept is critical for electrical safety. As stated, using one hand to handle wires reduces the chance of becoming part of the circuit and creating a potentially dangerous path for current through the body. Moreover, the Earth's magnetic field has no significant effect on this process since it mainly influences the magnetic forces on the wire, not the path of the electrical current into the ground.
Lastly, even if an appliance is grounded, as indicated in FIGURE 23.57, a person can still be shocked. This occurs because the resistance of the ground wire is not zero, and there can still be voltage present on the appliance's case. Therefore, it's paramount for safety procedures to be properly followed when handling electrical equipment.