CAIE IGCSE Physics 4.4.4 Why the outer casing of an electrical
Practise explaining why metal appliance cases need earthing while insulating or double-insulated cases do not need an earth wire.
- Syllabus
- 2026–2028
- Course
- Physics 0625
Practise explaining why metal appliance cases need earthing while insulating or double-insulated cases do not need an earth wire.
Fig. 3.1 shows a mains electric heater used to heat a small room.

Fig. 3.1
The metal outer casing of the heater is earthed. State why this is an important safety feature.
Any one from:
- prevents (electric) shock (if live wire touches the metal casing) owtte
- if live wire touches the metal casing the current goes to earth
B1