Which of the following is good practice when installing ground wires on a tower for lightning protection?

The best practice for installing ground wires on a tower for lightning protection is to ensure that connections are short and direct. This approach minimizes the resistance of the grounding system, allowing it to effectively dissipate the immense electrical energy from a lightning strike. A shorter, more direct connection reduces the inductive and resistive losses that can occur with longer or more convoluted paths, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the lightning protection system.

In grounding systems, the goal is to create a low-resistance path to the earth. When connections are kept short and direct, the impedance of the ground system is lowered, allowing it to work more effectively during a lightning event. This is crucial for protecting both the structure and any associated equipment from damage.

Other practices mentioned, while beneficial in specific contexts, do not prioritize efficiency in the same way. For example, creating a drip loop may help in certain scenarios related to water management but does not directly improve the grounding efficiency. Opting for right-angle bends in wires can sometimes increase the resistance of the installation and complicate the current's path. Therefore, while each of these individual practices can have their merits, the most essential factor for effective lightning protection is the directness and shortness of connections.