In a ladder diagram, what is typically represented by horizontal lines?

In a ladder diagram, horizontal lines are known as rungs, and they form the main structure upon which the diagram is built. These rungs represent the control logic and consist of multiple components including inputs and outputs that are connected to a vertical power source. Each rung typically connects the left and right vertical rails, representing the flow of electricity or logic signals through the specified operations of a control circuit.

Understanding this structure is crucial, as the rungs provide a visual representation of how inputs (like sensors or switches) and outputs (like motors or lights) interact within a control system. The layout and arrangement of rungs in the ladder diagram illustrate how these components are linked, allowing operators and engineers to easily understand the operational functions of the system. Thus, recognizing that horizontal lines denote rungs is important for interpreting and analyzing ladder diagrams effectively.