What is the process of diverting unwanted electric charge directly into the earth called?

• A. Bonding
• B. Insulation
• C. Discharging
• D. Grounding

Answer: (D)

Diverting unwanted electric charge directly into the earth is grounding. The earth acts as a very large conductor that can absorb excess charge without its voltage changing much, so a path from the electrical system to the ground safely carries away that current. This keeps metal cases and people at safe, common potential and helps prevent shocks or equipment damage during faults or static buildup. Grounding is different from bonding, which is just linking conductive parts to keep them at the same potential, and from insulation, which blocks current flow. Discharging refers to the release of stored charge, which may happen into the air or a surface rather than into the earth.