Automotive Electronics Practice Test

What happens to the wire as the American wire gauge (AWG) number increases?

1. Thicker the insulation

2. Smaller the wire

3. More strands per foot

4. Larger the wire

The correct answer is: Smaller the wire

As the American Wire Gauge (AWG) number increases, the diameter of the wire decreases, resulting in a smaller wire. The AWG system is a logarithmic scale where each increment in wire gauge represents a decrease in diameter. Specifically, a higher AWG number means that the wire is thinner. This relationship is essential for understanding wire sizing in automotive applications, where using the correct gauge is critical for ensuring adequate current-carrying capacity, minimizing voltage drop, and preventing overheating. The understanding of wire thickness in relation to AWG is vital for selecting the appropriate wire gauge for various electrical tasks and components in vehicles.