What does voltage drop refer to in electrical wiring?

Voltage drop refers to the decrease in voltage that occurs when electric current flows through a conductor, such as a wire or cable. As the current travels along the conductor, it encounters resistance, which leads to a loss of electrical potential energy. This reduction in voltage can affect the performance of electrical devices connected to the circuit, as they may not receive the proper voltage levels required for optimal operation.

In electrical systems, understanding voltage drop is crucial because it can lead to inefficiencies, increase energy costs, and potentially cause equipment to malfunction if the voltage becomes too low. Proper sizing of conductors and minimizing the distance between the power source and the load can help reduce voltage drop, ensuring that devices operate effectively and safely.