NEC Commercial Electrical Practice Test

A branch circuit that supplies only one range could be defined as all of the following, except which type of branch circuit?

1. Individual branch circuit

2. Appliance branch circuit

3. General purpose branch circuit

4. Multi-wire branch circuit

The correct answer is: Multi-wire branch circuit

A branch circuit that supplies only one range fits the definitions of both an individual branch circuit and an appliance branch circuit, as both terms describe circuits dedicated to powering a single appliance. An individual branch circuit is specifically designed to serve a single load, which aligns perfectly with supplying one range. An appliance branch circuit is also utilized for the purpose of connecting one appliance, often including requirements for larger appliances that draw significant current, such as ranges. However, a general-purpose branch circuit is designed to supply multiple outlets or devices. It provides a means to connect several appliances or devices as needed, which does not correspond with the definition of a circuit that serves exclusively one range. In this context, the multi-wire branch circuit can be ruled out because it encompasses separate circuits that share a common neutral but provides connections for more than one load, thereby not limiting itself to a single appliance. Therefore, it does not meet the criteria for exclusively supplying one range. Understanding these definitions helps clarify why the correct response identifies the multi-wire branch circuit as the exception in this scenario.