What does a circuit need to be considered a "correctly grounded" system?

For a circuit to be considered a "correctly grounded" system, it must establish a proper connection to the earth ground. This grounding serves multiple critical purposes, including providing a safe path for fault currents, stabilizing voltage levels, and protecting both equipment and individuals from electrical hazards. By connecting to the earth, the circuit ensures that excess voltage can dissipate safely, which is fundamental for maintaining the integrity and safety of electrical systems.

While isolation from other circuits, grounding to the neutral wire, and disconnecting from the power source are relevant concepts in electrical safety and design, they do not define what constitutes a properly grounded system. Isolation might help with certain safety measures, grounding to the neutral can lead to potential hazards if not done appropriately, and disconnecting from the power source interrupts the functionality of the circuit entirely, thus not addressing the grounding aspect. Grounding provides the essential safety connection to the earth, which is indispensable for a functioning and compliant electrical system.