Illinois Home Inspector Practice Exam

What is the function of dielectric unions in electrical systems?

1. Enhance conductivity

2. Break continuity

3. Improve flexibility

4. Reduce resistance

The correct answer is: Break continuity

Dielectric unions serve a specific purpose in electrical systems by breaking continuity between dissimilar metals. When two different types of metal come into contact, the risk of galvanic corrosion increases, which can deteriorate the metal over time due to electrochemical reactions. By using dielectric unions, a non-conductive material is introduced between these metals, effectively interrupting the electrical continuity. This helps prevent harmful reactions that could compromise the integrity of the electrical system. In the context of the other choices, enhancing conductivity is not achieved with dielectric unions since their design limits electrical flow to prevent corrosive reactions. Similarly, improving flexibility is not a focus of dielectric unions; they are primarily concerned with creating a barrier from electrical continuity rather than allowing movement or bending in the materials. Reducing resistance does not apply here, as the goal of dielectric unions is not to improve the conductivity of the system but to prevent dissimilar metal contact.