What could a grounded conductor of a system be?

A grounded conductor within a system is primarily identified as a neutral conductor. This type of conductor is intentionally connected to the grounding system to maintain a reference point of zero voltage, ensuring the safety and stability of the electrical system. Neutral conductors carry current under normal conditions and provide a return path for current in an electrical circuit.

Understanding the role of a neutral conductor is crucial, as it helps prevent electrical shock hazards by minimizing the risk of potential build-ups that could occur due to imbalances in the system. Furthermore, grounding the neutral conductor plays an essential role in the proper functioning of overcurrent devices and ensures that fault currents are effectively directed to ground, thus enhancing the overall safety of the electrical installation.

The other options are less appropriate because a fusing conductor relates to overcurrent protection, a periodic conductor doesn't commonly exist as a recognized term in grounding and bonding contexts, and an active conductor usually refers to a live or energized conductor, which would not serve the neutral or grounding purpose associated with a grounded conductor.