What term is used to identify the 208-volt conductor?

The term "wild leg" or "high phase" refers to the 208-volt conductor typically found in a three-phase power system. In a three-phase system, you have three conductors carrying current, and the voltage between two of these conductors can create different voltage levels, such as 120 volts or 208 volts. The "wild leg" designates the phase that carries a different voltage than the standard, often associated with the 208-volt output when referencing a three-phase configuration.

This terminology is critical because it helps electricians and engineers clearly identify and work with the distinctive voltage characteristics inherent in three-phase power systems. Understanding which leg is the wild leg is essential for ensuring proper connections, troubleshooting electrical systems, and maintaining safety standards in electrical installations.

By contrast, other terms like "neutral conductor," "ground leg," or "low phase" are not applicable in this context because they refer to different aspects of electrical systems. A neutral conductor is intended to carry unbalanced current back to the source, while a ground leg is used for safety purposes to prevent electric shock. The term "low phase" is not standard terminology in describing conductors in three-phase systems. Thus, knowing that the wild leg is the 208-volt conductor