Question

Explain in brief the function of an electric fuse in a domestic circuit. An electric heater of current rating 3 kW; 220 V is to be operated in an electric circuit of rating 5 A. What is likely to happen when the heater is switched 'ON' ? Justify your answer with necessary calculation.

When electric current flows in a purely resistive circuit electrical energy gets fully converted into heat energy. The amount of heat produced (H) in the circuit is found to be directly proportional to (i) the square of current (I²) (ii) the resistance (R) of the conductor and (iii) the time (t) for which current flows. In other words H = I²Rt. Electrical devices such as an electric fuse, electric heater, electric iron etc. are all based on this effect called heating effect of electric current.

When electric current flows in a purely resistive circuit electrical energy gets fully converted into heat energy. The amount of heat produced (H) in the circuit is found to be directly proportional to (i) the square of current (I²) (ii) the resistance (R) of the conductor and (iii) the time (t) for which current flows. In other words H = I²Rt. Electrical devices such as an electric fuse, electric heater, electric iron etc. are all based on this effect called heating effect of electric current.

Assertion (A): A fuse is always connected in parallel with the main circuit. Reason (R): A fuse is used to prevent overloading in a circuit.

Assertion (A): A fuse in a circuit prevents damage to the appliances and the circuits due to overloading. Reason (R): Overloading occurs when the live wires and the neutral wire come into direct contact.