In the context of a duplex receptacle, which screw is considered hot?

In a duplex receptacle, the hot screw is identified by its brass color. This is a standard convention in electrical wiring: the brass screw connects to the hot (live) wire, which is typically black or red in color, while the silver screw is connected to the neutral wire, usually white. The green screw is reserved for grounding purposes, where a ground wire connects to ensure safety in electrical installations.

Understanding this color-coding scheme is crucial for safe electrical practices, as it helps maintain consistent and correct wiring connections. Knowing that the brass screw is designated for the hot connection ensures that the receptacle functions correctly and reduces the risk of electrical shock or fire hazards.