The phrase positive to positive negative to ground is correct when jump starting a car
true or false
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
False.
When jump-starting a car, the correct method involves connecting the jumper cables in a specific order to ensure safety and prevent electrical damage. The phrase “positive to positive, negative to ground” is misleading because it does not accurately reflect the proper procedure for connecting the cables.
Here’s how to properly jump-start a vehicle:
- Identify the terminals: The battery has two terminals: positive (+) and negative (-). The positive terminal is usually red, while the negative terminal is black.
- Connect the positive terminals: Start by connecting one end of the positive (red) jumper cable to the positive terminal of the dead battery. Then, connect the other end of the same cable to the positive terminal of the working battery.
- Connect the negative terminal: Instead of connecting the negative jumper cable directly to the negative terminal of the dead battery, you should connect it to a grounded metal part of the vehicle with the dead battery. This could be a bolt on the engine block or the vehicle’s frame. This is crucial because it helps prevent sparks near the battery, which could ignite any hydrogen gas that might be present.
- Connect the negative terminal on the working battery: Finally, connect the other end of the negative (black) jumper cable to the negative terminal of the working battery.
After all connections are made, start the engine of the working vehicle, then attempt to start the vehicle with the dead battery. Once started, remove the cables in the reverse order: first the negative from the ground, then the negative from the working battery, followed by the positive from the working battery, and finally the positive from the previously dead battery.
Following these steps ensures a safe and effective jump-starting process while minimizing the risk of electrical accidents or damage to either vehicle’s electrical system.