What volume is required for an outlet box containing 3-12/2 NM cables and a duplex receptacle outlet?

To determine the required volume for an outlet box containing 3-12/2 NM cables and a duplex receptacle outlet, you need to calculate the volume based on the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements.

First, each 12-gauge conductor counts as 2 cubic inches. Since there are three 12/2 NM cables, each with two conductors (a hot and a neutral), that gives us a total of 6 conductors. The calculation for the conductors would be 6 conductors x 2 cubic inches = 12 cubic inches.

Next, the duplex receptacle outlet requires an additional volume. The NEC typically adds 2 cubic inches for each device, including a duplex receptacle. Therefore, you add another 2 cubic inches to the box volume for the receptacle.

So, the total volume required would be:

12 cubic inches (for the conductors) + 2 cubic inches (for the duplex receptacle) = 14 cubic inches.

However, there is often a discrepancy in how options are presented in practice tests; the question might be testing a specific standard or might require adjustment based on application or interpretation. If the answer choices provided only included lower numbers, it could be offering a simplified understanding