Final answer:
The most popular line break overload in small central residential systems is the external compressor overload, with circuit breakers and fuses acting as essential safety devices by interrupting excessive currents to protect both residents and appliances.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most popular line break overload used in small central residential systems is c. external compressor overload. Overloads are devices that are used to protect electrical circuits from receiving too much current, which could cause damage to equipment or even present a fire hazard. In the context of home electrical systems, circuit breakers and fuses play a critical role in protecting the circuit by interrupting excessive currents. Circuit breakers are rated in amperes, with ranges typically from 10 to 30 amps in a residential setting, serving to protect not only the residents but also the appliances from damage due to large currents. These protective devices can tolerate high currents briefly, as might occur when an appliance first turns on but will trip or blow if the current is too high for too long, as might happen with an overload condition.