Fuses and Circuit Breakers ARTICLE

What is the primary function of fuses and circuit breakers in a home's electrical system?

• To protect the electrical system from overloads and short circuits

• To increase the voltage in the electrical system

• To provide a backup power source

• To enhance the speed of electrical current

How do fuses differ from circuit breakers in terms of usability?

• Fuses need to be replaced after each overload, while circuit breakers can be reset

• Fuses are more cost-effective than circuit breakers

• Fuses provide better protection against short circuits

• Fuses are more convenient to use than circuit breakers

What mechanism do circuit breakers use to detect and interrupt excessive current flow?

• A combination of thermal and magnetic elements

• Only a thermal element

• Only a magnetic element

• A chemical reaction

What should homeowners do regularly to ensure the safety of their circuit breakers?

• Manually trip and reset each breaker several times a year

• Replace all circuit breakers annually

• Increase the amperage rating of each breaker

• Install additional fuses for extra protection

What might repeated tripping of a circuit breaker indicate?

• An overloaded circuit, a short circuit, a ground fault, or a faulty appliance

• A need for more circuit breakers

• A malfunctioning electrical meter

• A power outage in the area