Which of the following items is used in the household wirings to prevent accidental fire in case of short circuit ?
[amp_mcq option1=”Insulated wire” option2=”Plastic switches” option3=”Non-metallic coatings on conducting wires” option4=”Electric fuse” correct=”option4″]
This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-2 – 2016
The correct answer is D. An electric fuse is a safety device specifically designed to protect electrical circuits and prevent fires caused by overcurrents, such as those resulting from a short circuit.
In case of a short circuit or overload, an excessively large current flows through the circuit. This large current causes the fuse wire, which has a specific melting point and resistance, to heat up rapidly and melt. When the fuse wire melts, it breaks the circuit, interrupting the flow of current and preventing overheating of wires and appliances, thus preventing accidental fire.