What is the purpose of a circuit breaker?

The purpose of a circuit breaker is primarily to protect electrical circuits from overloads and short circuits. When an electrical fault occurs, such as an overload where too much current flows through a circuit or a short circuit that creates a path of low resistance, the circuit breaker automatically interrupts the flow of electrical current. This action prevents potential damage to electrical wiring, appliances, and reduces the risk of electrical fires.

Circuit breakers are designed to reset after they trip, unlike fuses which need to be replaced. This functionality not only enhances safety by mitigating the risks associated with overcurrent conditions but also ensures that the system can quickly return to normal operation without the need for parts replacement. By cutting off the power supply in potentially dangerous situations, circuit breakers serve as a crucial component in electrical systems for ensuring safety and reliability in electrical installations.

In contrast to this, other options like voltage regulation, converting AC to DC, or measuring current flow are tasks performed by other types of devices, such as voltage regulators, rectifiers, and ammeters, respectively. Therefore, the role of a circuit breaker is distinct and focused on circuit protection.