What wire gauge should be used for the minimum size service conductors for a 200A-rated service in copper?

For a 200A-rated service using copper conductors, the appropriate wire gauge must ensure that it can safely handle the current without overheating and meet the electrical code requirements. The National Electrical Code (NEC) provides guidelines on the minimum sizes for conductors based on the ampacity ratings.

For a 200A service, the minimum size for copper conductors is 4/0 AWG. This size provides adequate capacity to handle the 200 amps of current safely while allowing for voltage drop and potential load variations. Using 4/0 AWG copper wire ensures that the conductors can carry the load over typical distances and comply with safety standards.

In contrast, the other gauge options such as 2/0 AWG or 3/0 AWG do not provide sufficient capacity to safely support a 200A service according to the NEC. Smaller gauges, like 6 AWG, are far below the necessary rating for such a service. Thus, 4/0 AWG is established as the correct answer for ensuring safe and code-compliant electrical installations for a 200A service.