In a domestic electrical circuit, safety devices and control switches are typically connected in series. This arrangement ensures that the entire circuit's current passes through the device, allowing it to interrupt the flow in case of a fault.
The main fuse (or circuit breaker) is connected in series with the live wire of the main supply coming into the house. Its purpose is to protect the entire circuit and appliances from overcurrent or short circuits. If the current exceeds a safe limit, the fuse wire melts, breaking the circuit and stopping the flow of electricity.
Appliances like fans and electric bulbs, along with other household devices, are connected in parallel across the live and neutral wires. This ensures that each appliance receives the full mains voltage (e.g., 230V) independently, regardless of whether other appliances are switched on or off. Connecting them in series would mean the voltage is divided among them, preventing them from functioning correctly.
Therefore, the main fuse is the component usually connected in series in a domestic circuit.
A science teacher asks students to measure the current through a bulb using an ammeter. What precaution must the students follow?