A ground wire is a safety feature in electrical systems that provides a path for excess electricity to flow safely into the ground. This helps prevent electrical shocks and reduces the risk of fire by directing stray currents away from people and sensitive equipment. Ground wires are typically connected to metal parts of electrical devices and systems, ensuring that any fault current is safely dissipated. In residential wiring, ground wires are often green or bare copper and are part of the overall electrical system, which includes components like circuit breakers and outlets. Proper grounding is essential for the safe operation of electrical appliances and is a key requirement in building codes.