What is the aim of grounding in electrical systems?

Grounding in electrical systems primarily serves to provide a low-resistance path for fault currents. When a fault occurs, such as a short circuit, it is essential for the electrical system to redirect the excess current safely to the ground. This helps protect both the equipment and personnel by minimizing the risk of electric shock and preventing equipment damage. The low-resistance pathway allows fault currents to flow quickly to the ground, facilitating the operation of protective devices such as circuit breakers or fuses, which then disconnect the faulty circuit.

While stabilizing voltage, preventing electrical surges, and improving signal quality are relevant aspects of electrical systems, they are not the primary purpose of grounding. Grounding does contribute indirectly to voltage stabilization by maintaining a common reference point, but its foremost function is addressing safety through effective fault current management.