What are two types of circuit breakers mentioned?

The identification of thermal and magnetic as types of circuit breakers is based on their operating principles.

Thermal circuit breakers utilize heat to detect overloads. When the current flowing through the circuit exceeds a set limit, the increased temperature causes a bimetallic strip inside the breaker to bend, triggering the circuit to open and thereby disconnecting the electrical flow. This design is effective for protecting against prolonged overload conditions.

Magnetic circuit breakers, on the other hand, operate based on electromagnetic forces. When a surge in current occurs, it generates a magnetic field strong enough to pull an armature and open the circuit. This mechanism responds quickly to short circuits, preventing damage to electrical circuits and devices.

Understanding these two types provides insight into how circuit protection effectively responds to different electrical faults, ensuring safety and preventing equipment damage.