Grounding started with long distance telegraph lines, and really developed with power transmission lines. When power lines began stretching miles from the "central stations", operators began noticing huge arcs sometimes jumping from generator terminals. Mechanics oiling bearings would be shocked by the unpredictable currents. It was found to be a phenomenon caused by natural charge building up in the system due to its size. It was mitigated by grounding one of the wires on the system. They began grounding at every pole and substation.
And now, because the distribution side is connected to the earth, the utilization side has to be as well, lest you find some high voltage between your water spigot and the lawn.
Grounding for short circuit protection is more properly called bonding.
And now, because the distribution side is connected to the earth, the utilization side has to be as well, lest you find some high voltage between your water spigot and the lawn.
Grounding for short circuit protection is more properly called bonding.