What is the effect of a short circuit in an electrical circuit?

A short circuit occurs when there is an unintended low-resistance connection established in an electric circuit, bypassing the normal load. This allows a very high amount of current to flow through the circuit, far exceeding the design specification. The significant increase in current can lead to overheating of wires and components due to the excessive energy being dissipated as heat.

When wires overheat, they can become damaged, potentially melting insulation and possibly causing fires. The condition of overheating is a direct consequence of the high current flow associated with a short circuit. Understanding this effect is crucial for electrical safety and system design.

Other options, like increased resistance, power shutdown, or reduced voltage do not accurately represent the primary and immediate consequence of a short circuit. Instead, the main concern is the overheating that results from excessive current, which can lead to severe electrical failures or hazards.