What is the main purpose of a fuse in an electrical circuit?

A fuse serves a critical safety function in an electrical circuit by protecting the circuit from overcurrent. When the current flowing through the circuit exceeds a certain threshold, the fuse is designed to melt or blow, breaking the circuit and preventing excessive current from causing damage to the wiring, components, or creating potential fire hazards. This overcurrent could be caused by a fault in the circuit or the overloading of devices connected to the circuit.

Understanding the role of current and circuit protection is crucial in electrical systems. The main purpose of a fuse ensures that components operate within their specified limits, thereby maintaining both functionality and safety.