In electrical wiring, what does a black colored wire indicate?

In electrical wiring, a black wire is commonly used to indicate a hot conductor. This means that the black wire carries electrical current from the power source to outlets, switches, or electrical devices. The designation of black as a hot wire is part of the standardized color coding in electrical systems to ensure safety and proper identification of electrical circuits.

This color-coding helps electricians and anyone working with electrical systems to quickly identify the purpose of each wire, facilitating safe installation and troubleshooting. Understanding that black signifies a hot conductor is crucial for safely connecting and working with electrical systems, as it alerts individuals to the presence of live current that can pose shock hazards if the wire is mishandled.