What is the primary purpose of grounding in electrical systems?

The primary purpose of grounding in electrical systems is to provide a low-resistance path to the earth. This is essential for safety reasons, as it helps to redirect electrical faults or stray currents safely into the ground, preventing electric shock hazards and damage to equipment. By establishing this connection to the earth, grounding ensures that in the event of a fault, the excess electrical energy is discharged away from people and sensitive equipment, minimizing the risk of injury or equipment failure.

This low-resistance pathway helps maintain the stability of voltage levels in an electrical system and enhances the overall safety and reliability of the installation, making it pivotal in electrical design and maintenance.