Red Seal Electrician Practice
Wiring and componentsQuestion 397 of 1506

In a simple description of switches, what do the terms "pole" and "throw" refer to?

  1. Poles are outputs; throws are inputs
  2. Poles are inputs; throws are outputs
  3. Poles are fuses; throws are loads
  4. Poles are coils; throws are cores
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Correct answer: Poles are inputs; throws are outputs

An SPST switch has one pole and one throw.

Source: Electrical Fundamentals Competency (Industry Training Authority of BC), 5.5: Circuit Control Devices

Practice wiring and components

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026