Ground wires are essential components in electrical systems, designed to protect people and equipment from electrical faults. They provide a safe path for excess electricity to flow into the ground, reducing the risk of electric shock or fire. Ground wires are typically connected to grounding rods or grounding plates buried in the earth. In residential wiring, ground wires are usually green or bare copper and are connected to outlets, light fixtures, and circuit breakers. This connection ensures that if a fault occurs, the electrical current will safely dissipate into the ground rather than posing a danger to users or damaging appliances.