Which statement about a radial circuit is true?

• A. It forms a loop back to the distribution board with two parallel paths
• B. It uses a PEN conductor throughout
• C. It runs from the consumer unit to each outlet individually
• D. It is only used for data cabling

Answer: (C)

Radial circuits are feeds that originate in the consumer unit and extend out to outlets along a single, non-looping path. There’s no return path that forms a closed loop back to the board, which is why this type contrasts with a ring final circuit that forms a loop with two parallel routes to each outlet.

In modern practice, you don’t run a PEN conductor throughout a radial circuit; protective earth (PE) and neutral (N) are kept separate (or the PEN is split only where required by TN-C-S systems). Also, radial circuits aren’t limited to data cabling; they supply general power outlets and appliances.

Thus, the statement that describes a radial circuit as running from the consumer unit to the outlets along a single feed best captures its characteristic arrangement.