Final answer:
The three-wire system with a separate grounding conductor is a flexible wiring method used to protect against thermal and shock hazards. It involves utilizing live/hot, neutral, and ground wires, and grounding the neutral wire and case of the appliance. This method ensures that any faults or excessive current are safely directed into the earth, preventing potential hazards.
Step-by-step explanation:
When it comes to flexible wiring methods, there is a specific method that includes a separate grounding conductor. This method is known as the three-wire system. In this system, three wires are used: the live/hot wire, the neutral wire, and the grounding conductor. The grounding conductor is used to connect the circuit to the earth, ensuring that it is fixed at zero volts and providing a safe return path for current.
The purpose of the separate grounding conductor is to protect against thermal and shock hazards. By grounding the neutral wire and the case of the appliance, any faults or excessive current can be directed safely into the earth, preventing potential hazards.
For example, in a kitchen, where there may be water on the floor or a water faucet, a good connection to ground is available. If an appliance without a ground connection were to experience a fault, such as a short circuit, a severe shock could occur. However, with the grounding conductor in place, the circuit breaker will trip, preventing the flow of excessive current and ensuring the safety of users.