Which statement about current paths is false?

Which statement about current paths is false?

• A. Current will NEVER take an insulated path because an insulator doesn't allow current to flow
• B. Current will take the path of least resistance
• C. A conductor can become a path to ground when faulted
• D. All circuits are always closed for current to flow

Answer: (A)

Current flows along any path that can complete a circuit, and it tends to follow the path of least resistance, but an insulated path is not an impossible route. Insulation is designed to resist current, yet it isn’t a perfect barrier. Real insulation allows some leakage current, especially at high voltages, with moisture or contaminants present, or as insulation ages. In alternating current, the dielectric between conductors can support displacement current, so current can move through the insulation region even though there isn’t a direct metal-to-metal conduction path. If insulation breaks down or surfaces become conductive (for example, due to contamination), a current path can form that travels along or through the insulation. So saying current will never take an insulated path misstates how real electrical systems behave. The other statements reflect common ideas about current paths—current tends to follow a low-impedance route, a conductor can become a path to ground when faulted, and while a steady DC circuit needs a closed loop, transient or displacement currents can occur without a simple solid closed path.

Current flows along any path that can complete a circuit, and it tends to follow the path of least resistance, but an insulated path is not an impossible route. Insulation is designed to resist current, yet it isn’t a perfect barrier. Real insulation allows some leakage current, especially at high voltages, with moisture or contaminants present, or as insulation ages. In alternating current, the dielectric between conductors can support displacement current, so current can move through the insulation region even though there isn’t a direct metal-to-metal conduction path. If insulation breaks down or surfaces become conductive (for example, due to contamination), a current path can form that travels along or through the insulation. So saying current will never take an insulated path misstates how real electrical systems behave. The other statements reflect common ideas about current paths—current tends to follow a low-impedance route, a conductor can become a path to ground when faulted, and while a steady DC circuit needs a closed loop, transient or displacement currents can occur without a simple solid closed path.