Which safety device is commonly used to protect circuits from short circuits?

The use of a fuse or circuit breaker as a safety device in protecting circuits from short circuits is fundamentally important in electrical systems. When a short circuit occurs, it creates an unintended low-resistance path for current to flow, which can lead to excessive current that poses a risk of overheating, damage to equipment, or even fire hazards.

Fuses and circuit breakers are specifically designed to interrupt the flow of electricity when the current exceeds a safe level. A fuse does this by melting a wire inside it when it gets too hot due to excessive current, thereby stopping the flow. On the other hand, a circuit breaker uses a switch mechanism that trips and breaks the circuit when high current is detected, allowing the circuit to be reset once the issue is resolved.

This protective function helps to ensure that other components in the circuit remain safe from damage due to surges in current caused by short circuits. In contrast, other options like resistors, transistors, and inductors do not serve the same protective role; they each have functions related to controlling current flow, amplification, or storing energy. Hence, the role of a fuse or circuit breaker in safeguarding circuits during short circuits is vital and directly answers the question posed.