The __ uses a rating number;the larger the rating number, the __ the wire and the lower it's current-carrying capability. a. American wire gauge;larger b. American wire gauge;smaller c. Metric wire gauge larger d. Metric wire gauge;smaller

## Step 1<br />The problem is about understanding the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system. The AWG system is a standardized wire gauge system used in North America to denote the diameter of round solid, nonferrous, electrically conducting wire.<br />## Step 2<br />In the AWG system, a larger gauge number indicates a smaller wire diameter. This means that the larger the gauge number, the smaller the wire.<br />## Step 3<br />The problem also mentions that a larger gauge number indicates a lower current-carrying capability. This is because a smaller wire has less space for the current to flow through, thus reducing its current-carrying capacity.<br />## Step 4<br />Based on the above understanding, the correct answer is option b: "American wire gauge; smaller". This is because it correctly identifies the system (American wire gauge) and correctly states the relationship between the gauge number and the wire size (smaller).