What happens during a short circuit?

During a short circuit, current flows freely through a low-resistance path. This typically occurs when there is an unintended connection in an electrical circuit, allowing electricity to bypass the normal load, which usually offers resistance. The result is an increase in current flow beyond the circuit's design capability.

When a low-resistance path is created, it causes a significant increase in current, leading to overheating and potential damage to wiring and devices. This excessive current can also trigger protective devices like fuses or circuit breakers, which are designed to interrupt the current flow to prevent further damage or fires.

The other choices present scenarios that do not accurately describe what happens during a short circuit. For instance, voltage does not increase dramatically; instead, it tends to remain constant while current increases. Additionally, fuses do not reset automatically; once a fuse has blown, it must be replaced. Lastly, during a short circuit, an overwhelming amount of current flows rather than only a small amount, which is counter to the essence of a short circuit.