True or False: In a situation where No. 8 copper wire is adequate, a No. 10 aluminum wire would also suffice.

The statement is false because copper and aluminum wires have different conductivity properties, and their ampacity (the maximum amount of electric current a conductor or device can carry before sustaining immediate or progressive deterioration) varies significantly. Specifically, aluminum wire is less conductive than copper wire, which means that for the same gauge size, aluminum can carry less current safely.

When No. 8 copper wire is determined to be adequate for a particular application, it typically can handle a specific current rating (ampacity) based on its conductivity. In contrast, No. 10 aluminum wire, being a larger gauge and having lower conductivity than copper, would not be able to safely handle the same amount of current. Therefore, using a No. 10 aluminum wire in the same application requiring No. 8 copper wire would increase the risk of overheating and potentially creating a fire hazard.

Understanding the differences in conductivity and ampacity of copper and aluminum wiring is crucial for electrical installations, ensuring that the chosen wire can adequately handle the expected electrical load safely.