Carries a potential difference of around 230 volts from the supply
Neutral wire
Completes the circuit with the live wire, has a potential difference of around 0 volts
Earth wire
A safety wire, connected to the ground
Function of earth wire
If the live wire comes loose and the metal case becomes live, the earth wire provides a path for a large current to flow to the ground, causing the fuse to melt and shut off the current, preventing electric shock
Mains electricity in the UK is alternating current (AC) with a frequency of 50 Hertz and a potential difference of around 230 volts
The live wire is connected to a fuse in the plug
If someone touches the live wire
A current would flow through the person into the earth, causing electrocution
Most appliances in the UK are connected to an earth wire
