The neutral conductor is primarily used to:

The primary function of the neutral conductor is to provide a path for unbalanced current in a multi-phase electrical system. In a balanced load scenario, the current flowing through the phase conductors is equal and opposite in average, resulting in no current flowing through the neutral. However, when there are variations in load, such as in single-phase branch circuits or imbalances in three-phase systems, the neutral serves to carry the return current from the unbalanced load back to the supply.

This is crucial for maintaining system stability and safety, as it helps to ensure that differences in load do not cause an unsafe buildup of voltage in any of the phases. The neutral conductor also helps in stabilizing the overall system and facilitates the proper functioning of safety devices, like circuit breakers, by ensuring that fault currents have a designated return path.

The other options, while they describe relevant aspects of electrical systems, do not accurately define the primary purpose of the neutral conductor. The total load is carried by all conductors, including the phases; grounding relates to safety and protecting equipment; and supporting overhead lines pertains to cable management rather than the function of a neutral conductor.