What is the difference between service conductors and branch circuits?

• A. Service conductors run from the utility to the service equipment; branch circuits originate from the service equipment to feed loads.
• B. Service conductors feed the loads; branch circuits come from the utility.
• C. Service conductors are only for lighting; branch circuits originate from the service equipment.
• D. Service conductors can't be protected by breakers; branch circuits can.

Answer: (A)

The difference lies in where the conductors start and what they supply. Service conductors run from the utility to the service equipment (the main disconnect and panel), bringing power into the building. Branch circuits originate from the service equipment and then feed the individual loads throughout the structure, such as outlets, lights, and appliances.

This description matches how the system is normally arranged: the service conductors bring power to the panel, and the branch circuits distribute that power onward to the loads. The service equipment typically provides the main overcurrent protection, while each branch circuit is protected by its own breaker or fuse inside the service equipment.

The other statements mix up the source or the scope: branch circuits do not come from the utility directly, and service conductors are not limited to a single type of load like lighting. They also aren’t described as being unprotected by breakers.