Fuses and circuit breakers are primarily designed to protect which of the following?

Fuses and circuit breakers serve as crucial components in electrical systems, primarily designed to protect conductors and equipment from damage that could arise due to overloads, short circuits, or faults. When an electrical fault occurs, such as an excessive current flow, these protective devices respond by interrupting the electrical circuit. This interruption is vital because it helps prevent overheating, potential fires, and damage to both the electrical equipment and the wiring (conductors) used in the system.

The protective function they provide is twofold: not only do they safeguard the integrity of the conductors—by preventing excessive current that could lead to melting or fire—but they also shield connected electrical equipment from receiving harmful surge currents that could cause operational failures or catastrophic breakdowns. This makes the protection of both conductors and equipment the primary focus of these devices, highlighting their essential role in maintaining a safe electrical environment.