What does grounding refer to?

Grounding refers to the practice of connecting an electrical system or device to the earth. This connection provides a safe path for electric current to dissipate in the event of a fault or surge, thus preventing potential hazards such as electrical shocks, equipment damage, or fire. By grounding, any excess or stray electrical energy can flow into the ground, ensuring safety for both the equipment and users.

The function of grounding is critical in electrical installations, as it establishes a reference point for voltage levels while enhancing the stability and reliability of electrical systems. Proper grounding methods help protect sensitive electronic equipment and create a safer environment in which electrical devices can operate.

In contrast, the other choices fail to accurately represent the purpose of grounding. Connecting an object to the air does not effectively dissipate electric current like grounding would, isolating devices does not involve a connection to the earth and instead prevents current flow, and joining two separate power sources is unrelated to grounding as it pertains to linking power systems rather than safety measures for electrical currents.