In an electrical diagram, what does a dashed line represent?

In an electrical diagram, a dashed line is commonly used to represent an exposed wire, as it indicates a wire that is not concealed or protected by insulation or coverings. This visual representation helps distinguish between various types of wiring or connections within a circuit, making it easier for those interpreting the diagram to understand the layout and types of components involved.

The use of dashed lines for exposed wires is important for safety and clarity, as it highlights areas where there might be potential hazards due to the wire being accessible. This information can be critical during both installation and maintenance, ensuring that technicians can take proper precautions when working with the system.

In contrast, other options such as underground cable or ground wire typically utilize different symbols or line styles for clarity in the schematic. This helps prevent confusion and ensures that anyone reading the diagram can quickly identify the nature of each line.