What is the purpose of a bonding conductor in an electrical system?

The purpose of a bonding conductor in an electrical system is fundamentally about safety. Bonding conductors are employed to connect various metallic parts and elements of an electrical system to ensure that they are at the same electrical potential. This is crucial for minimizing the risk of electrical shock hazards.

When metallic parts are bonded together, it provides a path for fault current to flow safely to the ground in case of an electrical fault. This helps to prevent the buildup of voltage on non-current-carrying metallic parts that could be touched inadvertently, thus protecting individuals from potential electrocution. The bonding process also ensures that any stray voltage is quickly and safely dissipated, providing a layer of safety in electrical installations.

Additionally, while other options may relate to electrical systems in different contexts, they do not capture the primary safety goal that bonding conductors achieve in preventing electrical shocks and maintaining system integrity.