electrical question about copper wire?

Question

what does a #12 copper wire look like and waht does a #14 wire look like if you got pictures post a link thanks

Answer 1

Wire is "sized" by "gauges". The bigger the number, the smaller the wire so #14 is thinner than # 12
Here is a link to the information you seek
.http://www.sizes.com/materls/wire.htm

These sizes are only for the wire, not the insulation on it. They all come in many colors.

Answer 2

In recent years, much of the 12 gauge wire is being wrapped in yellow pvc, while the 14 gauge is still being wrapped in white. Side by side it's easier to tell. 12 is thicker and more difficult to work with, bend and such.
Also, spools of wire have the gauge and other identifying characteristics laser printed on them at regular intervals.

Answer 3

actually a few years ago they color coded the casings of the wiring so that the 12 gauge is yellow and the 14 gauge is white. The difference is the size of the wire. Bigger the number the smaller the wire and the less of a load in should carry

Answer 4

To most of us, they look identical. However, #12 is slightly thicker and heavier than #14.
In a home, #12 is often used for electrical outlets, #14 for lighting circuits (lights/switches).
To view/feel the difference, visit a local Ace/Lowes/HomeDepot as a visual picture--unless magnified--will not capture the difference.

Answer 5

go to a hardware store and look at the wires yourself....the numbers are printed on the wires....number 12 wire is the size of about 1/8 of a inch....number 14 wire is about the size of a heavy pencil lead......both these wires come in many colors......

Answer 6

IT'S THE THICKNESS / CARRYING CAPACITY OF THE WIRE!