Final answer:
Different appliances require various levels of electrical current, with larger appliances like refrigerators needing higher current protection, which is why a 15-amp breaker is used for outlets whereas a 20-amp is for the refrigerator.
Step-by-step explanation:
Circuit breakers are crucial components in household electrical systems, designed to automatically interrupt power flow to protect against overcurrents that can cause damage to appliances and pose a safety risk. When we observe that a 15-amp circuit breaker is commonly used for several outlets in a living area, while a 20-amp circuit breaker is designated for a refrigerator, it implies that different appliances have varying current requirements. The refrigerator, being a larger appliance, likely consumes more electricity and thus requires a circuit breaker with a higher ampere rating for safe operation. Such setups ensure that in the event of an overcurrent, the breaker will trip, cutting off power before any harm can be done to the electrical system or connected devices.