Question

Is Earth a conductor?

Answer 1

Hint:Conductors are referred to those substances or bodies which are able to transmit or transfer charges. We can possibly conclude whether Earth is a conductor or not by simply justifying whether it conducts electricity.

Complete step-by-step solution:
Conductors are those substances that do not resist the flow of electric current within themselves. For example copper, silver, gold and many others.
They conduct electricity as they allow the flow of electrons from atom to atom.
Now let us come to the fact whether Earth is a conductor or not. It is concluded that Earth is also a conductor as it allows the flow of electricity.
Reasons-
The Earth has a constant potential reference against which other potentials can be measured. An electrical ground system must have an accurate current-carrying capability to serve as an adequate zero-voltage reference level. In electronic circuit theory, a ‘ground’ is usually referred to as an infinite source or sink for charge, which can absorb an unlimited amount of current without changing its potential. Where a real ground connection or Earth has a significant resistance, the approximation of zero potential is no longer valid.
Additional information: The potential of Earth is $0$. It can be considered that Earth is an infinite storage of negative charge. So, while any charge carrier or current is connected with Earth it readily conducts it and does not react. It is just like pouring one cup of water into the ocean.

Note:It must be noted that moisture in the Earth also plays an important role in the conductance of electricity. If the moisture content in the soil is more than conduction is more while if the moisture content is less than conduction is less.