Explain "voltage drop" in electrical wiring.

Voltage drop refers to the decrease in voltage that occurs as electrical current travels through a conductor, such as a wire. This phenomenon is primarily due to the resistance of the conductor, which converts some electrical energy into heat as current flows.

When current encounters resistance in the wiring, it causes a loss of voltage along the length of the conductor. This is critical to understand because excessive voltage drop can lead to insufficient voltage reaching devices at the end of the circuit, potentially affecting their performance and efficiency.

Recognizing voltage drop is particularly important in HVAC systems, where long wire runs are common, and ensuring that devices receive adequate voltage is vital for reliability and efficacy. In systems where voltage drop is not managed, issues such as overheating, increased energy consumption, and equipment damage can occur.

Thus, the emphasis on the reduction in voltage as current flows through a conductor encapsulates the essence of what voltage drop is and why it matters in the context of electrical work and HVAC systems.