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which electrical component stops the electric current flowing if too much electric current causes a thin metal filament to melt and

Question

Which electrical component stops the electric current flowing if too much electric current causes a thin metal filament to melt and break?

Answer

4.6 (318 Votes)
Verificación de expertos
Glynis Professional · Tutor for 6 years

Answer

Fuse

Explanation

The question is asking about an electrical component that is designed to stop an electric current if it becomes too excessive. The safety device discussed here includes a thin metal filament that melts and breaks when the electric current is too much. This interruption of current flow prevents potential damage or fire hazards in electrical circuits. This feature describes a fuse. A fuse is a protective device that is used in electrical circuits; it breaks the circuit if a set current level is exceeded, thereby protecting the remainder of the circuit. The operation of a fuse is an irreversible operation, which means once a fuse blows, it needs to be replaced, unlike a circuit breaker that can be reset.