Which statement best describes a circuit breaker compared to a fuse?

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A circuit breaker is designed to interrupt the flow of electricity in a circuit and can be reset after it has tripped; this feature distinguishes it from a fuse, which needs to be replaced after it blows. This ability to be used multiple times without replacement is a significant benefit of circuit breakers, making them a more convenient option for overcurrent protection in electrical systems.

While the other statements touch upon aspects of circuit breakers, they do not accurately convey the fundamental utility of circuit breakers. For instance, stating that a circuit breaker can only be used once is incorrect, as its key advantage lies in its reusability. Meanwhile, the notion that a circuit breaker interrupts current flow temporarily is misleading, as the interruption is not temporary in nature—it remains off until manually reset. Lastly, the claim regarding lower voltage ratings is not true; circuit breakers are available for a variety of voltage ratings, often higher than those typically managed by fuses. Thus, the defining characteristic of a circuit breaker is its ability to allow for multiple uses, highlighting its practical application in modern electrical systems.

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