A battery cable can be used as a ground strap although a ground strap provides more flexibility and is less likely to corrode and break.
The reason why you should use a ground strap instead of a wire is because the braided ground strap has more conductors and flexibility.
However both a ground strap and a wire will still work just as good for the electrical current traveling through it.
The different types of ground straps are insulated, solid wire, sheet, mesh and braided ground straps and they can be made from aluminum, copper, stainless steel and tinned copper.
A grounding strap works by providing a path for ground and connects the negative terminal of the battery to the vehicle's metal chassis or the engine block.
The connection with the grounding strap completes the electrical circuit and allows electricity to flow through the vehicle's systems and then back to the battery.
Electrical components in a vehicle need a path for electricity to flow both to and from them.
The grounding strap provides this return path, ensuring the circuit is complete and the components can function correctly.
By providing a low-resistance path for current, the grounding strap helps to prevent electrical components from overheating or being damaged due to faulty wiring, short circuits, or power surges.
The reason why engine ground straps are braided is for supporting higher amperage's, greater dissipation of heat and for flexibility and durability.
The braided structure of the ground strap allows for greater resistance to vibration, stress and movement when compared to a solid wire.
The braided engine ground strap also prevents breakage and ensures a reliable ground connection.
Braided ground straps also have more conductors and are also better suited for environments where the ground cable is subject to movement.
An engine needs a ground strap that is connected to the engine and then to the body of the vehicle.
And it's also recommended that the engine have another ground strap from the engine to the frame if your vehicle has a frame.
Having a ground strap from the engine to the chassis and or a ground strap from the engine to the frame helps provide for a good ground and prevents electronics such as the ignition module from burning up.