Aluminium wire has produced problems due to unequal expansion/contraction at the brass or copper terminals and long-term surface oxidation. For that reason copper is recommended and there is usually no good reason not to use copper (of the correct gauge for the current).
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Neutral is neither Hot nor ground. Neutral is the return wire for electrical service. It is a requirement , by law, that the Neutral Wire Feed into an electrical service box (main panel) be BONDED to the box and the Earth ground. Thie effectively makes the neutral in circuits out of the service panel equal to ground. But as it enters the service panel from the utility and meter pan, it is not ground. <<>> The only time that the neutral can have voltage on it is if it gets disconnected from the distribution point. Then the voltage that is supplied to the load will continue through the load and stop at the disconnection point. If you touch the uninsulated part of the neutral wire and touch any grounded equipment at the same time your body will act as a conductor for the load circuit. You will receive a nasty shock. This scenario is the only time that the neutral is "hot".
In the service distribution panel there are termination points at the top of the panel. Two of the utilities "hot" conductors terminate on the main breaker. The neutral utility termination point is on a terminal block usually off to the side near the main hot terminations. It is in this neutral termination block where the system ground connects from the ground rods to the distribution panel. For a 100 amp panel the wire size will be a #6 bare copper conductor.
Yes, in a residential 200 amp panel, the neutral wire is typically the same size as the hot wires. This is to ensure that the neutral wire can safely carry the same current as the hot wires and maintain proper balance in the electrical system. Always consult the National Electrical Code or a qualified electrician for specific requirements.
The hot wire carries current to the appliance, while the neutral wire returns the current back to the power source. Both wires are considered "hot" because they can carry electric current, but the hot wire is at a higher voltage compared to the neutral wire. It is important to keep them separate to maintain the circuit's intended flow of electricity and prevent electrical hazards.
Yes, in a 4-wire electrical service, the neutral wire is included along with the hot wires and ground wire. The neutral wire is used to complete the circuit and provides a return path for the current to flow back to the source.