The bushing designated x2 is the __________ conductor.

• A. Neutral
• B. Phase A
• C. Ground
• D. Phase B

Answer: (A)

In a three‑phase system with a wye-connected winding, the neutral is the common point where all three windings meet and serves as the return path for unbalanced currents. The bushing labeled x2 is the neutral conductor because it represents that central, zero‑potential point used as the return path, not one of the phase lines.

Remember the distinction: a ground (protective earth) is a safety connection separate from the current-carrying neutral. They can be connected at a point, but they are not the same conductor. Phase conductors carry the line voltages to and from the load, whereas the neutral carries current back to balance the system when the loads are unbalanced. If the system were delta-connected, there would be no neutral accessible.