Editing AC power plugs and sockets (section)

== Overview of connections ==
[[Single-phase electric power|Single-phase]] sockets have receptacles for two power pins, one to carry the electrical current from the power source to the connected device (called ''live'', ''line'', or ''phase pin'') and another one to carry it back to the power source (called ''neutral pin''). Many sockets have a third receptacle or pin for a safety connection to earth ground. The plug is a [[gender of connectors and fasteners|''male'']] connector, usually with protruding pins that match the receptacles (''female'' contacts) in a socket. Some plugs also have a female contact, used only for the [[ground (electricity)|earth ground connection]]. Typically no energy is supplied to any exposed pins or terminals on the socket, hence the power pins are always part of the plug rather than the socket. In addition to the recessed contacts of the energised socket, plug and socket systems often have other safety features to reduce the risk of [[electric shock]] or damage to appliances.