A fuse is primarily used for what purpose in an electrical system?

A fuse is primarily used to prevent overheating in an electrical system. It serves as a safety device designed to protect electrical circuits from excessive current. When the current flowing through the circuit exceeds a certain threshold, the fuse contains a metal conductor that melts or breaks, interrupting the flow of electricity. This action helps to prevent overheating, which can lead to electrical fires or damage to equipment.

In contrast, the other options relate to functions that a fuse does not perform. Increasing voltage is typically accomplished through transformers, while converting energy types would involve devices like converters or inverters. Boosting current flow is generally a function of amplifiers or transformers as well, but fuses are specifically designed to limit and interrupt excessive current rather than enhance it. Understanding the primary role of a fuse is essential for ensuring safety and reliability in electrical systems.