In a 110-volt power tool's power cord, how are the three prongs typically configured?

In a 110-volt power tool's power cord, the typical configuration of the three prongs consists of one hot, one neutral, and one ground prong. The hot prong is responsible for carrying the electrical current to the tool, providing the power necessary for operation. The neutral prong serves as the return path for the current back to the electrical panel. This configuration is crucial for the safe operation of electrical devices, as it helps to prevent electrical shock and ensures that any malfunctions are appropriately addressed through the ground prong.

The ground prong is a safety feature that provides a path for electrical current to flow back to the ground in the event of a short circuit or fault. This helps to protect users from electrical hazards and contributes to the overall safety of the tool by reducing the risk of electric shock. Therefore, the correct answer is grounded in the understanding of basic electrical safety and the necessity of having distinct roles for each prong in the power cord configuration.