I always thought AC current requires 2 wires to carry the current both ways just like DC. Recently I read a post on this sub saying neutral wires go to ground. What am I missing?
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No, power always wants to try to go back to the source. It will use a ground path, but in the case of AC power, it’s trying to find its way back to the transformer, a la neutral. Neutral is just the center point (tap) on the transformer.
Ground is only there in your AC circuits to protect the equipment in case of a fault. It’s there to provide the fastest, least resistant path back to your panel to facilitate tripping of the breaker/fuses as QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. Poor grounds mean slower tripping or not at all.
Source: NEC, Mike Holt, https://youtu.be/mpgAVE4UwFw -1:00 in
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