UPSC Prelims 1998·GS1·science-and-technology·science and technology

A fuse is used in main electric supply as a safety device. Which one of the following statements about the fuse is correct?

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Last updated 23 May 2026, 3:31 pm IST
  1. AIt is connected in parallel with the main switch
  2. BIt is made mainly from silver alloys
  3. CIt must have a low melting pointCorrect
  4. DIt must have a very high resistance

Explanation

The correct answer is C because a fuse is designed to protect electrical circuits from excessive current. It is made of a material with a low melting point so that if the current exceeds a safe limit, the wire heats up and melts quickly. This breaks the circuit and stops the flow of electricity, preventing damage to appliances or fire hazards. Regarding the other options: A is incorrect because a fuse must be connected in series, not parallel, to ensure all current passes through it. B is incorrect because fuses are typically made of tin-lead alloys or copper, as silver is too expensive and has a high melting point. D is incorrect because while a fuse needs some resistance to generate heat, its primary requirement is a low melting point to act as a fail-safe.
science-and-technology: A fuse is used in main electric supply as a safety device. Which one of the following statements about the fuse is corre
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