What are gangs and poles in electrical sockets?

Gangs in electrical sockets refer to the number of individual outlets available in a single electrical box, such as a single gang (one outlet) or a double gang (two outlets). Poles, on the other hand, describe the number of separate circuits that can be controlled by a switch or outlet; for example, a single pole switch controls one circuit, while a double pole switch can control two circuits. Together, these terms help define the configuration and functionality of electrical outlets and switches in a building's wiring system.