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Because a short allows/causes very large current flow, which "overloads" the wire [conductor]. When a conductor [wire] carries much more current than is safely capable, then the conductor heats up, and can cause enough heat to ignite the insulation and adjacent combustible materials on fire.
Wiki User
∙ 16y ago
Wiki User
∙ 13y agoA short circuit is a connection that is not expected, causing current flow where it is not expected. Often, a short circuit is a low impedance connection, causing the protective device (fuse or circuit breaker) to trip.
The generic diagram of an electric device shows a power source of some type and a path for the current to flow from the hot side of the voltage source through a load and back to the ground for the supply. A "short circuit" basically shortens the path of the current before the load and back to the ground of the supply with a resistance that is near zero causing a high current to flow. I suppose you could say the path of the current is shortened and hence "short circuit".
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What are the hazards of ammeter?
it will explode if it short circuits
What is the name of the circuit that is neither parallel nor series?
FEEDBACK CIRCUITS. In addition to parallel and series circuits, there are also closed and short circuits.
Why is low voltage circuits separated from higher voltages?
avoid crosstalksafety, a short between them could cause hazardous voltages where none are expectedprotect low voltage equipment from damageetc.
What a short hand way of drawing electrical circuits?
electrical symbol
What is blaniers test?
Blaniers Test is used in electronics to establish and locate short circuits and/or open circuits in cabling systems. It is a simple continuity test.
Is there any fire caused by floods in places where electricity is used?
Although floods can cause short circuits, they also tend to put out fires. Flooding has not been associated with fire.
Why must short circuits be opened instantly?
Short circuits cause extreme amounts of electrical and mechanical stresses on equipment. Equipment that will regularly carry 100amps of current can be exposed to thousands of amps of current. transformers explode, lines vaporize, poles start on fire, etc. if short circuits are not removed as soon as practical.
What are the causes of fire in electrical circuits?
Overloading the circuit or a device like a power strip will cause the wiring to heat up at it's weakest point and can result in fire, it can also cause insulation to melt resulting in an electrical short.
Why are fuses and curcuit breakers used in household circuits?
Fuses and circuit breakers are used to protect the wiring and devices from overload and heating caused by short circuits, short circuits that, if unprotected, could cause major damage and/or fire due to excessive current.
What causes a short circuits?
-circuit damage -overheating -fire or explosion causes a short circuit.
What are the effects of humidity on PC?
Humidity can cause components some to rust, and condensation can cause short circuits.
Can an insect cause an electrical short circit?
Yes, some insects can cause electrical short circuits. The insects can make nests inside fuse boxes and this can cause malfunctions.
What do you get when you cross a baby with a computer?
A: Short Circuits
What would cause a fuse to blow when you turn the lights on your 1988 300zx?
A short circuit. Look through your connections to your 'lights' and make sure there are no short circuits. If you want to know about short circuits see related links below.
When was Short Circuits - film - created?
Short Circuits - film - was created in 2007.
What would cause both the turn signal and brake light fuses to blow on a 2001 Ford Escape?
short circuits in the turn signal and brake light circuits
What are two devices that prevent short circuits?
Insulation in good condition and keeping equipment enclosures on and tight are two things to prevent short circuits. Fuses and breakers do not prevent short circuits. They eliminate damage that could be caused by short circuits.
