How Does A Circuit Breaker Work Bbc Bitesize

Circuit breakers are an essential part of the modern electrical system, protecting our homes and businesses from power overloads. But what exactly is a circuit breaker and how does it work? BBC Bitesize has all the answers.

A circuit breaker is an electronic device that protects circuits from an overload of current. It works by monitoring the current in a particular circuit, and when it reaches a certain level, it will trip, or shut off the power to that circuit. This prevents further damage to the electrical system, which could be costly and dangerous.

The way the circuit breaker works is that it has two main components: a coil of wire and a switch. The coil of wire is made of copper, which is a good electrical conductor. When the current in the circuit rises above a certain level, the coil of wire will heat up and expand, which will move the switch and close the circuit. This will stop the flow of electricity until the problem is addressed.

The most common type of circuit breaker is the thermal magnetic circuit breaker. This type of breaker uses a combination of temperature and magnetism to detect overvoltages. When the temperature of the breaker reaches a certain point, a bimetallic strip expands, which helps trip the breaker and shuts off the power. Additionally, many circuit breakers will also use a magnetic field to help detect power surges and prevent overloads.

Overall, circuit breakers are an important part of any home or business’s electrical system. Whether you’re using a thermal magnetic circuit breaker or another type of breaker, it’s important to make sure it’s working properly to protect your property and the people around it. For more information on circuit breakers and how they work, visit BBC Bitesize today.

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