Consider the following statements:
Over head transmission lines are provided with earth wires:
1. To protect the transmission line from direct lightning strike
2. To protect the transmission line insulation from the indirect lightning strike
3. To balance the line currents
4. To provide path for neutral current
Which of these statement/s is/are correct?

A

1 and 3

B

1 and 4

C

1 only

D

2 only