# Explain why household electrical appliances are connected to the earth wire and why fuses are used in electrical circuits.

> Eduqas GCSE Physics — 7.4 Domestic uses and safety · Explain · 4 marks

> Most household appliances are fitted with a three-pin plug containing a live wire, a neutral wire, and an earth wire. A fuse is also included in the circuit.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. The earth wire connects the metal casing of the appliance to earth (ground)
2. If a fault occurs and the live wire touches the metal casing, the current flows safely to earth rather than through a person touching the casing
3. When a fault causes a large current to flow, the fuse wire melts / blows
4. This breaks the circuit, preventing overheating / fire / further damage to the appliance

## Key terms

- [earth wire](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/earth-wire)
- [fuse](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/fuse)
- [circuit](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/circuit)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Eduqas GCSE Physics](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-household-electrical-appliances-are-e2478eb6) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.