The definition of a branch circuit is ___.

• A. the circuit conductors between the final overcurrent device protecting the circuit and the outlet(s)
• B. acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction
• C. the connection between the grounded circuit conductor and the equipment grounding conductor at the service
• D. a conductor encased within material of composition and thickness that is recognized by the Code as electrical insulation

Answer: (A)

A branch circuit is the wiring that runs from the final overcurrent protection device (like a breaker) to the outlets or loads it serves. This definition captures the portion of the circuit that delivers power once protection is provided, including the conductors that run with the circuit and the grounding conductor, up to and including the outlets or devices connected. It excludes service conductors coming from the utility and feeders between panels. The other statements describe things not defining a branch circuit: suitability to the authority having jurisdiction is about code acceptance, the service bonding connection is a grounding issue at the service, and insulation type is a separate property of conductors.