Final answer:
A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) acts similarly to a circuit breaker by detecting and interrupting circuit imbalances to prevent electric shock. It monitors currents in live/hot and neutral wires and trips if it detects leakage current greater than 5 mA, much like a circuit breaker responds to excessive current but with a focus on preventing shock hazards.
Step-by-step explanation:
A ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) acts like a small circuit breaker in that it interrupts the electrical circuit to prevent harm when a fault is detected. Typically used in areas prone to moisture such as kitchens and bathrooms, the GFCI monitors the amount of current flowing through the live/hot and neutral wires. If it detects any imbalance, indicating a leakage current (Ileak) which could present a shock hazard, the GFCI will swiftly trip to interrupt the circuit. This safety measure ensures that even a small leakage current above 5 mA, which is the accepted maximum for a harmless shock, will cause the GFCI to trip, thereby cutting off the electricity to prevent potential shock or fire.
Similar to circuit breakers and fuses that protect against thermal hazards by opening the circuit during excessive currents, GFCIs specifically protect against electrical shock hazards. They operate quickly and are sensitive to changes in magnetic field produced by current-carrying conductors, which is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction. While the GFCI forces the repair of leakage by tripping even if the leakage current safely goes to ground through an intact earth wire, circuit breakers generally need to be manually reset.