Question

If too many devices are plugged into a circuit, the current will heat the wires to a very high temperature which may cause a fire. This is known as a(n) ________.

1) Overload
2) Short circuit
3) Ground fault
4) Electrical surge

Answer 1

An overload occurs when too many devices are plugged into a circuit, causing the wires to overheat. Fuses and circuit breakers are used to prevent excessive currents and thermal hazards.

Step-by-step explanation:

The condition where too many devices are plugged into a circuit and the current heats the wires to a very high temperature, potentially causing a fire, is known as an overload.

An overloaded circuit occurs when the current flowing through the wires exceeds its rated maximum current. This can lead to overheating of the wires. For example, if a worn appliance cord has a higher resistance than it should, and a large current passes through it, the power dissipated in the cord can be much more than is safe, causing overheating.

To prevent excessive currents and thermal hazards, fuses and circuit breakers are used to automatically open the circuit when the current exceeds safe limits.