What is the primary purpose of a circuit breaker?

The primary purpose of a circuit breaker is to protect electrical circuits from overload or short circuits. Circuit breakers are crucial safety devices that interrupt the flow of electricity when they detect problems, such as excessive current that could lead to overheating and potential fires. When the current exceeds a predetermined threshold, the circuit breaker automatically opens, breaking the circuit and stopping the flow of electricity. This action prevents damage to electrical appliances and systems, ensuring safety in residential and commercial environments.

In the context of electrical systems, other functions mentioned do not align with the main role of a circuit breaker. Increasing electrical flow or enhancing conductivity would actually be detrimental as it could worsen situations leading to overloads. Converting electricity to mechanical energy is a function specific to devices like motors, not circuit breakers, which serve primarily as safety mechanisms in electrical distribution.