When terminating a receptacle, which color terminal does the white (grounded) conductor connect to?

The white conductor, also known as the grounded conductor, connects to the silver terminal on a receptacle. This connection is essential because the silver terminal is intended for the neutral or grounded conductors, which carry return current and complete the electrical circuit safely. Properly connecting the white wire to the silver terminal ensures that the receptacle is correctly wired according to electrical codes, which help prevent shock hazards and ensure proper functionality.

Other terminal colors are designated for specific purposes: gold is typically used for hot (live) conductors, green is reserved for grounding (equipment grounding) conductors, and blue is not a standard terminal color used for typical receptacle terminations. Connecting the white wire to the silver terminal is critical for maintaining the integrity and safety of the electrical system.