This is used to describe the size and quantity of CONDUCTORS in a cable. The first NUMBER specifies the gauge. The second the number of current carrying conductors in the wire - but remember there's usually an extra ground wire. "14-2" means 14 gauge, two insulated current carrying wires, plus bare ground.

2 wire usually has a BLACK, white and bare ground wire. Sometimes the white is red instead for 220V CIRCUITS without neutral. In the latter case, the sheath is usually red too.

3 wire usually has a black, red, white and bare ground wire. Usually carrying 220V with neutral.

This is used to describe the size and quantity of conductors in a cable. The first number specifies the gauge. The second the number of current carrying conductors in the wire - but remember there's usually an extra ground wire. "14-2" means 14 gauge, two insulated current carrying wires, plus bare ground.

2 wire usually has a black, white and bare ground wire. Sometimes the white is red instead for 220V circuits without neutral. In the latter case, the sheath is usually red too.

3 wire usually has a black, red, white and bare ground wire. Usually carrying 220V with neutral.