How Do Receptacles Work?

Receptacles, also known as electrical outlets, work by providing a path for electrical current to flow from a power source to an electrical device when a plug is inserted. They have three main parts: the hot terminal (where electricity enters), the neutral terminal (where electricity returns), and the ground terminal (for safety).

1. Power Source:Electricity from a power plant travels through power lines and a fuse box to the receptacle
2. Receptacle Components:Hot Terminal: This terminal carries the electrical current from the power source. It's typically identified by a brass-colored screw.Neutral Terminal: This terminal provides a return path for the current, completing the circuit. It's usually identified by a silver-colored screw.Ground Terminal: This provides a safe path for excess current in case of a fault, preventing electric shock. It's usually identified by a green screw.
3. Plugging in:When a plug is inserted, it connects to the hot and neutral terminals, allowing electricity to flow through the device.
4. Circuit Completion:The electricity travels from the hot terminal through the device and back to the neutral terminal, completing the circuit.
5. Safety:The ground terminal provides an alternative path for the current in case of a fault, ensuring the safety of the user and preventing electric shock.

For example, a standard 120-volt outlet has two slots: the left slot is the neutral, the right slot is the hot, and a round hole below them is the ground. When you plug in a device, the electricity flows from the hot terminal through the device and back to the neutral terminal, completing the circuit. The ground terminal provides a safety path for any leakage or fault.