A three phase electrical system that is defined as a 3 wire system has how many wires in total?

In a three-phase electrical system defined as a three-wire system, there are indeed three wires in total. Each wire in this system carries one of the three phases of the electrical current, which allows for the distribution of electrical power in a balanced manner.

Three-wire systems are typically used to transmit power without a neutral wire, relying solely on the three phase conductors. This configuration is efficient for powering three-phase loads, as it effectively utilizes the symmetry and phase differences inherent in three-phase systems.

In contrast, alternative options suggest fewer or more wires, which do not accurately reflect the configuration and function of a three-wire three-phase system. Understanding this distinction is crucial, particularly in applications where three-phase power is being installed or analyzed, as the wire count directly influences the design and capacity of electrical systems.