What is the primary role of bonding in electrical systems?

The primary role of bonding in electrical systems is to ensure continuity. Bonding refers to the practice of connecting various metal parts of an electrical system to establish a low-resistance path for electrical currents. This is crucial because it helps to ensure that in the event of a fault (such as a short circuit), any stray electrical current is safely directed to the ground instead of posing a hazard.

By establishing continuity among conductive elements, bonding reduces the risk of electrical shock and equipment damage, as it allows for the effective operation of protective devices, like circuit breakers or fuses, by creating a reliable return path for fault currents. This safety function is fundamental to maintaining the integrity and safety of electrical systems in homes and buildings.

Insulation and conductivity, while important, are not the primary functions served by bonding. Insulation's role is to prevent unwanted electrical flow, and enhancing conductivity relates more to the materials used in wiring rather than the bonding process itself. Similarly, supporting wiring focuses more on structural aspects rather than the electrical safety functions provided by bonding.