Circuit breakers and short circuits

[GT1981]

Homework Statement

Hi,

This isn't so much an actual problem, just more of a general question. Can anyone give me a layman's explanation of what a short circuit is and how a circuit breaker deals with that? Or, can anyone refer me to any sources that can? I have taken high school physics, so anything along that level would be greatly appreciated!

THANKS SO MUCH!

_GT

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[mjsd]

short circuit is an unwanted pathway (usually much lower resistance than any other paths) where electrical current travels through to reach the "sink" (say ground, earth, -ve terminals). The reason that electrical current will flow through this path than through other paths because it has much lower resistance. As a result, a huge amount of current will go through this path --> dissipating huge amount of energy on the path--> making it to heat up and burnt...and fire etc.

the circuit breaker is a device that cuts of power when the current being drawn is too high, usually as a result of a short circuit (remember it has low resistance and so it "encourages" more current to flow). the breaker can be just a fuse: when the fuse gets too hot it breaks and stop the current flow BEFORE other part of the circuit starts burning. or it could be made up of a thermostat, using the fact that it will gets hot when there is a short circuit (from high current),... basically, the thermostat bends and if it is hot enough, it will bend far enough to trigger a cut of power.

 

[ogb p]

A short circuit occurs when there is a low resistance path between two points in an electrical circuit, causing a large amount of current to flow through that path. This can happen due to a damaged wire or component, or improper wiring. This can be dangerous as it can cause overheating and potentially start a fire.

A circuit breaker is a safety device that is designed to protect against short circuits. It works by detecting when there is an abnormally high amount of current flowing through the circuit, and then quickly breaking the circuit to stop the flow of electricity. This helps to prevent damage to the circuit and potential hazards such as fires. Circuit breakers are designed to trip or switch off when the current exceeds a certain level, and can be reset once the issue has been resolved.

In simpler terms, a circuit breaker acts as a safety switch that automatically shuts off the flow of electricity when it detects a problem, such as a short circuit. This helps to protect both the circuit and the devices connected to it, as well as ensuring the safety of the individuals using the circuit.