A circuit breaker performs the same function as which of the following?

A circuit breaker and a fuse both serve as protective devices in electrical systems, designed to interrupt the flow of electricity in case of overloads or short circuits. When the current flowing through a circuit exceeds a certain threshold, the circuit breaker will trip and cut off the power, similar to how a fuse will blow when it overheats. This action prevents damage to the electrical components and reduces the risk of fires.

Fuses and circuit breakers fulfill the crucial role of safeguarding electrical circuits. A fuse accomplishes this by using a small piece of metal that melts when excess current flows through it, while a circuit breaker uses an electromechanical mechanism that trips the circuit when a fault occurs. Thus, both devices are essential for maintaining safety and reliable operation in electrical systems.

In contrast, while switches and relays can control the flow of electricity, they do not automatically disconnect in fault conditions, and a capacitor serves a different purpose, such as storing electrical energy or filtering signals. Therefore, the similarity in function between a circuit breaker and a fuse makes the latter the correct choice in this context.