Final answer:
The answer is A) 15 amps or 20 amps. Circuit breakers in a home are typically rated from 10 to 30 amps and are matched to the expected load of the circuits they protect. It's also important to operate circuits at no more than 80% of their rated capacity continuously.
Step-by-step explanation:
Most 120 Volt circuits are wired to deliver 15 amps or 20 amps of current. The correct answer to the student's question is: A) 15 amps or 20 amps.
Circuit breakers are rated to protect electrical systems and are used based on the expected load of the circuit. A 15-amp circuit breaker might protect general outlets in a living room, while a 20-amp circuit breaker might be used for appliances requiring more power, such as a refrigerator. It is also important to note that for safety, circuits should only operate at 80% of their maximum capacity for prolonged periods. For example, a 15-amp circuit should not continuously run loads over 12 amps to prevent overheating and potential hazards.