What is the function of a circuit breaker compared to a fuse?

A circuit breaker is designed to provide a way to reset the electrical circuit after it has been tripped due to an overload or short circuit, making it reusable. This means that once the issue that caused the circuit to trip is resolved, the circuit breaker can be simply switched back on, restoring power without the need for any components to be replaced.

In contrast, a fuse provides overcurrent protection by melting a metal wire that is designed to break the circuit when excessive current flows. Once a fuse has blown, it must be replaced in order to restore electrical flow in the circuit.

This key distinction between circuit breakers and fuses highlights the practical advantages of circuit breakers—they eliminate the need for continuous replacements, offering a more convenient and efficient solution for circuit protection in an electrical system.