What is the primary difference between grounding and bonding?

The primary difference between grounding and bonding lies in their specific functions in an electrical system, which is accurately captured by the correct choice. Grounding is crucial for providing a safe pathway for excess electrical energy—such as fault currents—to travel safely into the earth. This process protects both equipment and personnel from potential electrical hazards that could arise due to faults in the system, thus reducing the risk of electric shock and fire.

On the other hand, bonding involves connecting various conductive parts together to ensure that they share the same electrical potential. This practice minimizes voltage differences between these parts, which is essential to prevent dangerous touch voltages that could pose a risk to personnel. By ensuring that bonded parts are at the same potential, the risk of electrical shock is significantly reduced.

Understanding this distinction is key to ensuring safety in electrical installations; grounding focuses on safety by directing fault currents away, while bonding emphasizes equalizing potential among electrical components.