The correct answer is: B. short-circuit and overload.
A fuse is a safety device that is used to protect electrical circuits from damage caused by overloads and short circuits. An overload occurs when the current flowing through a circuit exceeds the rated current of the circuit. A short circuit occurs when there is a direct connection between the two terminals of a circuit, bypassing the resistance of the circuit.
When a fuse blows, it interrupts the flow of current in the circuit, preventing damage to the circuit and the equipment connected to it. Fuses are typically rated for a specific current, and should be replaced with a fuse of the same rating.
Option A is incorrect because a fuse does not provide protection against open circuits. An open circuit occurs when there is a break in the circuit, preventing current from flowing.
Option C is incorrect because a fuse does not provide protection against open circuits. An open circuit occurs when there is a break in the circuit, preventing current from flowing.
Option D is incorrect because a fuse does provide protection against short-circuits and overloads.