What is the primary purpose of a fuse in electrical systems?

The primary purpose of a fuse in electrical systems is to prevent circuit overloads. A fuse serves as a safety device that interrupts the electrical circuit when the current flow exceeds a specified threshold. This is crucial because excessive current can lead to overheating, which poses a risk of fire or damage to electrical components. When the current exceeds the fuse's rated capacity, the metal inside the fuse melts, breaking the circuit and stopping the flow of electricity. This protective function helps safeguard both the electrical system itself and the devices connected to it from potential damage caused by overcurrent conditions.

In contrast, enhancing current flow or increasing circuit stability are not primary functions of a fuse; fuses do not actively manage or boost current but rather serve to interrupt it for safety. Regulating voltage levels also falls outside the scope of a fuse's function, as this is typically the role of other devices like voltage regulators or transformers.