What is the difference between a feeder and a branch circuit?

• A. A feeder runs from the service equipment to distribution equipment; a branch circuit runs from distribution equipment to outlets and loads
• B. A feeder runs from outlets to the service equipment; a branch circuit runs from service to loads
• C. A feeder runs only for lighting; a branch circuit runs for outlets
• D. A feeder is installed outdoors; a branch circuit indoors

Answer: (A)

The main idea is where power is going and what it’s feeding. A feeder carries power from the service equipment to distribution equipment, such as a panel or subpanel. It’s bringing power to the next point in the system. A branch circuit, on the other hand, carries power from that distribution equipment to the actual outlets, devices, and loads in the building.

For example, a feeder runs from the main service panel to a subpanel. Once the subpanel is fed, the individual branch circuits run from the subpanel to lights, receptacles, and appliances throughout the space. This separation explains the correct distinction: feeders move power to distribution points, while branch circuits move power from those points to the loads.

The other descriptions don’t fit because feeders don’t originate at outlets and branch circuits don’t start at the service equipment and go directly to loads without passing through distribution equipment.