What does the term “short circuit” refer to in electrical systems?

The term "short circuit" refers to a direct connection between two points in a circuit that allows current to flow along an unintended path with little to no resistance. This situation can occur when the conductive path bypasses a portion of the circuit, often leading to a sudden increase in current. When a short circuit happens, it can create excessive heat, pose fire hazards, or damage components and devices within the system. The direct connection often results in the failure of protective devices like fuses or circuit breakers, as their primary function is to interrupt the high current flow caused by such occurrences. Understanding this definition is essential for working safely with electrical systems and implementing appropriate safety measures to prevent short circuits from damaging equipment or causing hazardous situations.