Science Behind: Circuit Breakers

Many houses in the 1900s after the advent of circuits and common electricity would burn down. The reason for this is something known as a short circuit, where current (what runs through wires) is so amped up that it causes the entire circuit to light on fire. This is where circuit breakers come in.

Circuit breakers use an electromagnet, electricity flowing through the wires magnetizes the electromagnet inside of the circuit breaker. When the current jumps to a level that could start a fire, the magnet pushes down and cuts off the circuit and prevents current from flowing. This stops the electricity from flowing and prevents a fire from starting.

Circuit Breakers are one of the most, if not the most, important appliances in your home. It is basically the unsung hero of safe homes.