When a single receptacle is connected to a branch circuit with no other loads, what is the required ampere rating of the receptacle?

The correct answer is that the required ampere rating of the receptacle should be greater than or equal to the OCPD (Overcurrent Protection Device) rating. This requirement ensures that the receptacle can safely handle the maximum potential current that could flow through the circuit without overheating or becoming a fire hazard.

When designing electrical systems, the OCPD is meant to protect the circuit from overloads and short circuits; therefore, it is rated to interrupt current at a specific level. If the receptacle has a lower rating than that of the OCPD, it could lead to a situation where the receptacle could fail before the OCPD would trip, potentially causing damage or creating safety hazards.

For example, if you have a 20-amp circuit with a 20-amp OCPD, a receptacle would need to be rated for at least 20 amps to ensure that it can safely handle any load connected to it without risk. Thus, it is crucial that the receptacle's rating aligns with or exceeds the OCPD to maintain safety and functionality in the electrical system.