Define the term "grounding" in electrical systems.

Grounding in electrical systems refers specifically to establishing a connection between an electrical system and the earth. This connection is essential for the safety and functionality of electrical installations. By connecting to the earth, the system can dissipate any excess electrical energy, such as from lightning strikes or fault currents, safely into the ground.

This practice protects both equipment and people by limiting the voltage levels that can appear on equipment enclosures and ensuring that protective devices, like circuit breakers, will operate correctly in the event of a fault. Grounding helps prevent electric shock hazards and reduces the risk of fire due to electrical faults.

While connecting a circuit to an external voltage source, creating a path for current to return to the source, and isolating circuits can be important aspects of electrical systems, they do not capture the fundamental purpose and concept of grounding. Grounding specifically emphasizes the safety and stabilization of the entire electrical system by connecting it to the earth.