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What is the primary reason for checking the electrical ground of a duplex outlet?

  1. To ensure safety from electrical shock

  2. To confirm the outlet's power supply

  3. To comply with building codes

  4. To test for high voltage

The correct answer is: To ensure safety from electrical shock

The primary reason for checking the electrical ground of a duplex outlet is to ensure safety from electrical shock. A properly grounded outlet provides a safe path for electrical current to flow back to the ground in case of a fault, significantly reducing the risk of electric shock to individuals using appliances plugged into that outlet. This is especially critical in areas where water may be present, such as kitchens and bathrooms, where the risk of electric shock is heightened. While confirming the outlet's power supply, complying with building codes, and testing for high voltage are important considerations in electrical safety and functionality, these actions do not specifically address the immediate safety concern that arises from improper grounding. Ensuring that an outlet is grounded correctly directly mitigates the risk of severe injury or fatality due to electrical shock, making it the foremost priority when assessing electrical outlets.