"Richard Clark" wrote in message
...
On Sun, 09 May 2004 18:45:24 GMT, zeno wrote:
Theoretically, if "neutrals" (eg. the center taps of the step down
transformer's secondary) were not grounded anywhere on the Earth, would
the
Earth still act as the return path?
Hi Bill,

...[snip...]
there must be a complete circuit...
the "return path" of the hot lead is always the neutral
lead...

In other words, if the center tap of the pole transformer is not
connectod to a ground rod, connecting one side of a bulb to ground (to
complete the circuit) can't result in any current (given no other "secret"
paths).

Simply think of the pole transformer as a DC battery. Connect a light bulb
between one terminal of the battery and a ground rod. With the other
terminal of the battery not connected to a groung rod there is no complete
circuit. Its just hanging there.
The pole transformer has the center tap grounded for other safety
considerations - not to conduct current.

Take that bulb out in the field (with ONE hot lead back home) and it
will light with a brightness roughly proportional to the length of its
ground rod...unless there are problems in your neighbor's electrical
systems, then all bets are off...or you accidently grab the wire...

Measure the voltage between yours and your neighbor's ground rods.
Should be interesting.

OT:
[snip] Ground is ground,
Reminds me...
I have an old (toung-in-cheek) saying (when it comes to RF):
""A grounds a ground the world around."" Not many get my light-hearted
sarcasm.
--
Steve N, K,9;d, c. i My email has no u's.