2022-10-24 10:30:04 +01:00
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---
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tags: [physics, electricity]
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---
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2022-10-24 12:00:04 +01:00
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# Ground
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2024-02-02 15:58:13 +00:00
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The term 'ground' is used as a general reference for 'zero potential': the point
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in an electrical circuit where there is no potential difference between the
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positive and negative terminals of the voltage source.
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2022-10-24 12:00:04 +01:00
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2024-02-02 15:58:13 +00:00
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As a consequence of the lack of potential, ground is a point at which no current
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can be generated.
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2022-10-24 12:00:04 +01:00
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2024-02-02 15:58:13 +00:00
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The term originates from domestic electrical systems where the circuit box is
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literally attached to the ground (represented by the green and yellow ribboned
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wires in plug sockets and light fixtures etc) where current is discharged to
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prevent appliances emitting electrical shocks.
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2022-10-24 12:00:04 +01:00
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2024-02-02 15:58:13 +00:00
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In circuit diagrams with simple DC current, ground is taken to be the negative
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terminal of the voltage source.
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2022-10-24 12:00:04 +01:00
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The symbol for ground in circuit diagrams:
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2024-02-16 16:14:01 +00:00
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<img src="/home/thomas/repos/computer_science/img/ground-symbol.png" width="300px">
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