What is the primary purpose of a circuit breaker?

The primary purpose of a circuit breaker is to protect electrical circuits from overload conditions. An overload occurs when the electrical current exceeds the designed capacity of the circuit, which can cause excessive heat build-up and potentially lead to electrical fires or damage to devices. Circuit breakers are designed to automatically interrupt the flow of electricity when a fault is detected, thereby preventing damage and enhancing safety.

When a circuit breaker detects an overload, it trips, stopping the current from flowing until it is manually reset. This protective mechanism is crucial for maintaining both the integrity of the electrical system and the safety of individuals using the equipment.

While voltage drop, surges, and shunting are related to electrical systems, they do not reflect the main operational function of a circuit breaker, which is fundamentally about handling overload situations.