Core TradesQuestion 131 of 700
A GFCI (ground-fault circuit interrupter) protects people primarily by:
a.Preventing the circuit from being overloaded
b.De-energizing the circuit when current leaks to ground above roughly 5 milliamperes
c.Stopping series and parallel arcing faults
d.Limiting voltage drop along the branch circuit
Explanation
A GFCI compares current in the hot and neutral conductors and opens the circuit when the imbalance (leakage to ground) exceeds about 4-6 mA, preventing electrocution. Overload is handled by the breaker's thermal element, arcing faults by an AFCI, and voltage drop by proper conductor sizing.
Law Reference: 2025 CA Electrical Code, Art. 210.8Practice all 700 questions free — no signup required.
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