What is the function of a circuit breaker?

A circuit breaker serves a crucial safety function in electrical systems by interrupting the flow of electricity during fault conditions, such as a short circuit or overload. This interruption is vital in preventing damage to the electrical system and reducing the risk of fire or electric shock. When a fault is detected, the circuit breaker automatically disconnects the power, ensuring that the circuit is safe and preventing further damage to appliances and wiring.

The other options do not accurately represent the action of a circuit breaker. Providing unidirectional current refers to the behavior of diodes, which allow current to flow in one direction but do not interrupt it. Enhancing current flow is not the role of a circuit breaker, as its primary purpose is to limit or stop current flow under unsafe conditions. Additionally, storing energy for later use typically pertains to devices like batteries or capacitors, which accumulate electrical energy instead of interrupting it.