What is required for the grounded conductor of a multiconductor cable?

• A. It must be insulated or covered
• B. It must be bare
• C. It must be green
• D. It must be twice the insulation of the hot conductor

Answer: (A)

The grounded conductor in a multiconductor cable must be insulated or covered. This prevents accidental contact with other live conductors and helps keep the neutral identifiable (typically white or gray) within the cable assembly. Bare conductors are not used for the neutral in modern multi-conductor cables because they pose a shock risk and can be mistaken for the equipment grounding conductor, which is usually bare or green. There is no requirement that the insulation be twice as thick as the hot conductor; insulation rating is determined by voltage and cable design, while the key point here is that the grounded conductor is insulated.