Which term best defines the circuit conductors between the final overcurrent protective device protecting the circuit and the outlet(s)?

• A. Branch circuit
• B. Feeder
• C. Service conductors
• D. Lateral

Answer: (A)

The term you’re looking for describes the wiring that runs from the last overcurrent protection device in the panel out to the outlets and loads it serves. That set of conductors is known as a branch circuit. It starts at the protective device (the breaker or fuse) and ends at the outlets, switches, or fixtures on that circuit, including all wiring and devices in between.

Feeder conductors, by contrast, run between service equipment and distribution points (like between the main panel and a subpanel or between panels within a building). Service conductors are the wires coming from the utility company to the service equipment. Lateral isn’t the standard term used for this portion in typical terminology.