I’ve seen numerous videos on YouTube instructing to attach the red cable and then the black cable when jump starting a car (e.g. [1](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iI1o2hNy2hE), [2](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdnkRQF5Cps), [3](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyLwfthYjKw)).
However, to my understanding, black is for ground, and the reason for connecting ground in electrical systems is to prevent a potential voltage difference and creating a path for the excess current to flow into the ground (excuse me if I messed up “voltage” & “current”, my knowledge in that field is minimal). If that’s the case, then wouldn’t I want to ensure ground is connected first to prevent the risk of a voltage difference through the red cable?
I asked ChatGPT about the right order and it said “red then black”, then I explained my reasoning behind why I think black should go first, and then it said:
>You raise a good point. In some cases, it may actually be safer to connect the ground (black) cable first.
>
>To minimize the risk of sparking or arcing, it’s generally a good idea to connect the ground (black) cable to a metal part of the engine block before connecting the positive (red) cable. This will ensure that there is a low-resistance path to ground in case there is a potential difference between the batteries.
EDIT: Same question about the recommended reverse order of disconnecting. Why first disconnect black then red? Shouldn’t I make sure ground is connected at all times during a circuit? If I disconnect ground first, then red is connected on its own, raising the risk of an excess current.
In: 1
It doesnt really matter. It is supposed to prevent you from accidentally making short circuit by mixing wires. If you are not dumb and are using decently thick wires, it doesnt matter what cable you connect first or if you connect – to battery or car
edit: theoretically it can reduce sparking, but again.. doesnt make a difference
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