ASVAB Electronics Practice Test

In circuits, the reference point is the zero-volt level against which all voltages are measured. The point that sits at 0 volts relative to that reference is ground. Ground acts as a common reference and is often tied to earth for safety and a stable return path for fault currents. The neutral conductor is the return path in many power systems and is usually near ground potential, but it can have a small voltage drop along the run. The live (or hot) conductor carries voltage with respect to ground, and a floating node is not connected to the reference and can assume an unpredictable potential.