and what do i do with the ground and neutral when switching from an outlet that has a spot for all four wire to one that only has three where does the ground go
Al is aluminum and CU is copper (basic chemical symbols). Everything else that has been answered thus far is wrong. AL is bigger for the same ampere rating, but it is not double. Not ALL aluminum wiring is dangerous. Many (most?) houses have SOME aluminum wiring that is just fine. DIY's shouldn't be doing electrical work they don't understand, and aluminum is more picky about being installed properly. One answer described 4 iwires including bare and green. Only one or the other will be present. Now, what is it you are doing that you are switching from 4 wires to 3 wires? My first guess is a range or dryer outlet in a house. If that is the case, it is illegal to change from 4 wires to 3, and you should get the proper cord for your range or dryer that has a 4 prong plug on it.
Aluminum wire is dangerous and should be removed whenever possible.
Al - Aluminum Cu - Copper
AL is aluminum CU is copper
AL is aluminum wireCU is copper For Installations in USA Aluminum wire should be TWICE the size of Copper for the same ampacity. Four wires in a 110VAC circuit should be as follows: White Neutral Black Hot Leg Green Metal Frame of Switch/Outlet or Box Bare Metal Frame of Switch/Outlet or Box
