What factors should be considered when determining the size for a particular application?

When determining the appropriate size for a wire in a specific application, several critical factors must be taken into account to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with standards. The correct answer highlights the importance of system voltage, current, and whether the load is continuous.

The system voltage is crucial, as different voltages can affect the way current flows through the wire and how much heat is generated due to resistance. Knowing the operating voltage helps in selecting a wire that can handle the electrical stress without risk of overheating or failure.

Current is also a significant factor; wires are rated for a specific maximum current they can safely carry without excessive heat build-up. Understanding the current requirements of the load ensures that the wire selected will effectively handle the electrical demands.

Lastly, whether the load is continuous matters because continuous loads typically require a larger wire size to avoid overheating over time. Continuous loads are defined as those that are on for three hours or more, meaning they will often reach higher temperatures and, therefore, require thorough consideration in sizing.

Considering only one of these factors, such as the current to be carried, would not provide a comprehensive approach to wire sizing. Other factors like wire length and gauge, environmental conditions, and wire type do play roles but do not encompass the complete range