How many wires (conductors) are required for single-phase power?

For single-phase power, two wires (or conductors) are typically required. One wire carries the current to the load, known as the "live" or "hot" wire, while the other serves as the "neutral" wire, completing the circuit by providing a return path for the current. In some cases, a third wire may be included as a ground for safety purposes, but this does not constitute part of the basic requirement for single-phase power.

The indication that three or more wires are necessary may stem from confusion regarding specific setups or safety practices that include additional grounding conductors or separate circuits for return paths. However, fundamentally, single-phase systems operate effectively with the essential two wires, which is why two conductors are universally recognized as sufficient for this type of electrical design.