Core TradesQuestion 82 of 700
A homeowner reports that a bedroom outlet works but the tester shows an open ground. The MOST likely cause is:
a.The circuit breaker is oversized
b.The outlet has reversed hot and neutral
c.The neutral wire is broken
d.The equipment grounding conductor is not connected at the receptacle
Explanation
An open ground means the equipment grounding (ground) conductor is not connected or is broken, so metal parts lack a fault-clearing path even though the hot and neutral still power the outlet. Reversed polarity and a broken neutral are separate faults; breaker size does not cause an open ground.
Law Reference: 2025 CA Electrical Code (based on NEC)Practice all 700 questions free — no signup required.
Related questions on this topic
- An electrical panel is being installed. Regarding circuit identification, the code requires that:
- CALCULATION: A single-phase load draws 24 amperes at 240 volts. What is the apparent power in kilovolt-amperes (kVA)?
- A subpanel is fed from the main service panel in a detached structure. In a modern installation, the neutral (grounded) and equipment grounding (ground) conductors at the subpanel must be:
- CALCULATION: A branch circuit is protected by a 20-ampere breaker. Applying the common rule that a continuous load should not exceed 80 percent of the breaker rating, what is the maximum continuous load in amperes?
- When routing a nonmetallic-sheathed cable through holes bored in wood studs, the code generally requires that the hole be kept back from the stud edge, or a steel plate be installed, primarily to:
- A fixture drain is located far from any vent, and after installation the trap seals siphon out, letting sewer gas into the room. The MOST likely code violation is:
Last reviewed: · editorial process
PrepPass Editorial Team · Verified against California CSLB General Building (B) Trade Examination · How we review