Electrician's Licensing Practice Exam

What does the term "bonding" refer to according to NEC?

1. The temporary joining of metallic parts

2. The permanent joining of metallic parts

3. The non-conductive joining of electrical components

4. The connecting of devices to ground

The correct answer is: The permanent joining of metallic parts

Bonding, as defined by the National Electrical Code (NEC), refers to the permanent joining of metallic parts to ensure electrical continuity and the capacity to conduct safely any fault current that may arise. This process is crucial for enhancing electrical safety and protecting both people and equipment from electrical shock or fire hazards. When metallic parts are bonded together, they create a low-resistance path for fault currents, which helps in tripping protective devices like circuit breakers or fuses in the event of a fault. This bonding process is essential in electrical installations to prevent potential differences that could lead to dangerous situations. Other options imply varying types of connections. For instance, temporary joining and non-conductive joining do not fulfill the necessary criteria for safety and efficacy in electrical systems. Similarly, while connecting devices to ground is related to grounding, it serves a different function compared to bonding, which specifically targets the interconnection of conductive parts to eliminate voltage differences and provide safety during fault conditions.