What is the primary purpose of a circuit breaker?

The primary purpose of a circuit breaker is to shut off electric current in the event of an overload or short circuit. A circuit breaker acts as a safety device that automatically interrupts the flow of electricity when it detects a fault condition, reducing the risk of electrical fires and equipment damage. By cutting off the electric current, it helps protect the electrical system and ensure the safety of users.

While regulating charge flow is important in electrical systems, that function is typically managed by different components such as resistors or transformers. Preventing short circuits is a result of the circuit breaker's function, but its main role is to disconnect the current. Measuring resistance does not align with the function of a circuit breaker, which is specifically designed to react to abnormal conditions rather than to measure electrical characteristics.