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Examoogle • User • info@examoogle.com • EE-2024-8821
Chapter 1 of 12 • Page 1 of 248🔒 Protected PDF • Watermarked
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How fuse is connected in the circuit?
Series
Parallel
Any of above
None of above
Series
Quick Summary: A fuse is a protective device that must be connected in series with the load it is intended to protect. This ensures that the entire load current flows through the fuse element, allowing it to detect and interrupt excessive current flow.
A fuse is a protective device that must be connected in series with the load it is intended to protect. This ensures that the entire load current flows through the fuse element, allowing it to detect and interrupt excessive current flow.
H=I2Rt — The principle of the heating effect of current where H is heat produced in Joules, I is current in Amperes, R is resistance in Ohms, and t is time in seconds.
The fuse operates on the heating effect of electric current (H=I2Rt). When current exceeds the rated capacity due to a fault, the fuse element melts, creating an open circuit that stops the flow of current to the protected device. By placing it in series, the fuse acts as the 'weak link' that breaks the circuit path before the load is damaged.
Fuses provide overcurrent protection by interrupting the circuit when the current exceeds the melting point of the fuse wire.
Connecting a fuse in parallel would create a short circuit across the source, leading to catastrophic equipment failure.
A fuse is a low-cost, effective sacrificial safety device.
Simple and reliable construction.
Fast acting compared to many circuit breakers.
Low maintenance cost.
Must be replaced after each operation.
Likelihood of deterioration over time due to oxidation.
Not suitable for high-voltage power system switching.
Domestic wiring and distribution boards.
Electronic circuit protection.
Automotive electrical systems.
Standard household fuses are typically rated for voltage (e.g., 250V) and current (e.g., 5A, 15A).
Option B (Parallel) is incorrect because a fuse connected in parallel would be bypassed by the load current, rendering it unable to protect the circuit.
A is correct — A fuse must be connected in series with the supply to ensure all circuit current passes through it.
Always remember: Protective devices (fuses, MCBs, relays) are connected in series, while measuring instruments like voltmeters are connected in parallel.