What is the general purpose of a circuit breaker in electrical systems?

The general purpose of a circuit breaker in electrical systems is to provide overcurrent protection. Circuit breakers are designed to interrupt the flow of electricity when it detects an overload or short circuit condition, which helps prevent damage to electrical circuits and equipment. By doing so, they play a crucial role in maintaining safety within electrical systems, as they help avoid potential fire hazards and equipment failure caused by excessive current. The ability to reset a circuit breaker after it has tripped, rather than having to replace a fuse, also adds convenience and reliability to modern electrical installations.

The other choices relate to different aspects of electrical systems but do not accurately represent the main function of a circuit breaker. While energy efficiency and consumption are important, they are not directly addressed by the operation of a circuit breaker, which focuses specifically on safety and protection against overcurrent situations.