What is the primary purpose of a circuit breaker?

The primary purpose of a circuit breaker is to protect against damage from overloads or short circuits. Circuit breakers are safety devices designed to automatically interrupt the flow of electricity in a circuit when they detect an anomaly such as excessive current flow or a short circuit. This interruption is crucial because it prevents wires and electrical components from overheating, which could lead to fires or severe damage to the system. By doing so, circuit breakers maintain the integrity of the electrical system and ensure safe operation.

In contrast, amplifying voltage or increasing current flow does not align with the function of a circuit breaker. Circuit breakers are meant to prevent excessive electrical flow rather than enhance it. Additionally, the role of providing a constant voltage supply is typically managed by voltage regulators or power supplies rather than circuit breakers. Therefore, the correct understanding of a circuit breaker's purpose highlights its role as a protective measure in electrical systems.