What is the primary purpose of a pothead?

A pothead primarily serves to separate electrical conductors and to provide a seal against moisture and environmental elements. In overhead power distribution systems, the pothead is where the insulated cable connects to overhead lines, ensuring that individual conductors are kept apart. This separation is crucial for safety and to prevent electrical faults. Furthermore, the sealing aspect of a pothead helps to protect the electrical connections from water ingress, which can lead to short circuits or corrosion, ultimately increasing the longevity and reliability of the system.

The other options focus on aspects that a pothead does not directly address, such as increasing cable resistance or enhancing signal strength, which are not functions associated with this component. Providing electrical grounding is also not the primary role of a pothead, as grounding typically involves separate systems and devices designed specifically for that purpose.