Final answer:
A short circuit in a parallel circuit will cause excessive current, potentially damaging or destroying the power supply, and create a low-resistance path across the voltage source, thererfore, the answer is 'All of the above'.
Step-by-step explanation:
A short circuit in the branch of a parallel circuit will indeed cause an excessive amount of current to flow, which can potentially damage or destroy the power supply. The short circuit provides an undesired low-resistance path across the voltage source, leading to excessive current due to the relation P = V²/r, where P is power and r is resistance. When there is very low resistance, as is the case in a short circuit, the power dissipated in the form of thermal energy can rapidly increase, leading to hazards such as melting or even fires. Considering the possible consequences of a short circuit, it's reasonable to view it as causing a range of negative effects. Therefore, the answer to the student's question is D - All of the above.