Electrical systems are grounded to prevent surges due to which of the following?

Grounding electrical systems is a critical safety measure primarily aimed at protecting against surges resulting from lightning strikes. When lightning strikes a structure or nearby ground, it generates an enormous amount of electrical energy. If a building is not adequately grounded, this energy can surge through electrical systems, potentially causing severe damage to equipment and posing a significant risk of fire or electrocution.

By providing a direct pathway for the surge to travel safely into the ground, grounding systems help to ensure that lightning-induced energy does not enter the electrical system, thus safeguarding devices and maintaining the integrity of the electrical infrastructure. This protective measure is especially important in areas that experience frequent thunderstorms, reinforcing the need for effective grounding practices in electrical system design and maintenance.

While low voltage, overloads, and loose connections can lead to various issues within an electrical system, they do not relate specifically to surges from lightning. Grounding primarily addresses the potential hazards associated with high-voltage events like lightning, making this the most appropriate choice for preventing surge damage from such phenomena.