What are the main roles of a circuit breaker in an electrical system?

A circuit breaker serves as a critical safety device within an electrical system by providing protection against overloads and short circuits. When electrical current exceeds safe levels, either due to excessive load or a fault in the circuit, the circuit breaker interrupts the flow of electricity. This protective mechanism helps prevent potential hazards such as electrical fires, damage to equipment, and risks to personal safety.

The ability of a circuit breaker to detect these issues and react quickly is essential for maintaining the integrity of the electrical system and ensuring that devices and wiring are not subjected to damaging conditions. By tripping the circuit and stopping the flow of electricity, a circuit breaker effectively safeguards both the electrical infrastructure and the users.

In contrast, the other choices present functions that do not align with the primary purpose of a circuit breaker. For instance, increasing voltage and reducing current pertains more to transformers and power delivery systems, not circuit protection. Amplifying electrical signals relates to devices like amplifiers in audio systems, and converting AC to DC power is the role of rectifiers. Each of these options represents distinct concepts within electrical engineering that do not apply to the circuit breaker’s functionality.