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Multiple Choice

Shield wires are grounded to provide a path to ground for:

Shield wires are placed above transmission lines and connected to ground to intercept lightning and bleed off static electricity. Their purpose is to provide a low-impedance path to the earth for the charge carried by a lightning strike or any accumulated static on the line, so the energy goes to ground rather than into the energized conductors. This protects the main power lines from high-energy surges and reduces the chance of arcing to nearby structures. Wind loads are a mechanical concern and aren’t addressed by grounding the shield wire, and while grounding can influence electrical noise, the primary role of the shield wire is to give a safe ground path for lightning and static.

Shield wires are placed above transmission lines and connected to ground to intercept lightning and bleed off static electricity. Their purpose is to provide a low-impedance path to the earth for the charge carried by a lightning strike or any accumulated static on the line, so the energy goes to ground rather than into the energized conductors. This protects the main power lines from high-energy surges and reduces the chance of arcing to nearby structures. Wind loads are a mechanical concern and aren’t addressed by grounding the shield wire, and while grounding can influence electrical noise, the primary role of the shield wire is to give a safe ground path for lightning and static.