What happens when the circuit is overloaded?

When a circuit becomes overloaded, it means that there is too much electrical current flowing through it, often due to too many devices drawing power simultaneously or a fault in the wiring. In response to this overload, a safety mechanism, such as a fuse or circuit breaker, is designed to activate. This activation interrupts the flow of electricity, preventing damage to the circuit and reducing the risk of fire or equipment failure.

Fuses contain a wire that will melt when the current exceeds a certain limit, while circuit breakers have a switch that automatically flips to the "off" position when an overload is detected. Both of these safety devices are essential for protecting electrical systems and ensuring that they operate within their designed limits. Thus, the activation of a fuse or circuit breaker during an overload situation is a crucial safety measure.