Which type of switch can control a light from two locations?

• A. Single-pole switch
• B. Double-pole switch
• C. Three-way switch
• D. Four-way switch

Answer: (C)

A three-way switch is designed specifically to control a single light or a group of lights from two separate locations. The unique wiring arrangement of three-way switches allows for the connection of two switches to the same lighting circuit, enabling a seamless operation where you can turn the light on or off from either switch.

In this setup, each three-way switch has three terminal screws: one common terminal and two traveler terminals. The arrangement creates a circuit where you have multiple pathways for electricity, allowing either switch to complete the circuit and control the light.

Other types of switches, like single-pole switches, are intended for controlling a light from one location only, making them unsuitable for multi-location control. Double-pole switches are typically used for controlling 240-volt circuits and do not provide the capability to control a light from two sites. Four-way switches are intended for use in systems where a light is controlled from three or more locations; they work in conjunction with two three-way switches but cannot function as a standalone solution to control a light from only two locations.