According to NEC, what is the cross-sectional area of an 8 AWG bare solid copper conductor?

The cross-sectional area of an 8 AWG bare solid copper conductor is significant because it determines various electrical properties, including current-carrying capacity and resistance. The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies the standard dimensions for wires, including their cross-sectional areas.

For an 8 AWG copper conductor, the correct cross-sectional area is approximately 0.0366 square inches. This measurement is derived from standard wire gauge tables, which provide the dimensions of various wire sizes based on the American Wire Gauge system.

Understanding the relationship between wire gauge and its physical dimensions is crucial for selecting the appropriate conductor for specific electrical applications. An 8 AWG conductor is commonly used in residential and commercial wiring setups, making it essential to be familiar with its characteristics for safe and efficient electrical installations.