Question

The main function of a switch is to:
A) Allow changes of flow
B) Complete or break a circuit
C) Make the bulb glow easily
D) Prevent electric shocks.

Answer 1

Hint: Keep in mind that, in series or parallel circuit, when a switch is on current will flow in the circuit and when the switch is off, current will not flow in the circuit. You can take the example of switches used in our houses that are used for many purposes.

Complete answer:
Let us first know, what is a switch?
A switch is defined as a device that is used for making and breaking of electric current in a circuit. It is used to turn on and turn off daily used equipment like television, washing machine, fan, light, etc.

A switch can be used in series and parallel circuits. When the circuit is open, we can say that the switch is off, therefore, the current will not flow through the circuit. On the other hand, when the circuit is closed, we can say that the switch is on, hence current will pass through the circuit.
Therefore, we can say that switch is used to complete or break the circuit.

Therefore, option (B) is the correct option.

Additional Information:
Let us know more about switches.
A simple switch consists of two contacts in which the one contact is fixed and the contact is movable. When the pair of contacts touch each other, the current will flow in the circuit while when the contacts are separated the current will not flow.
The classification of switches mainly depends upon the connections they make which can be referred to as pole and throw of switches.
“Pole” is defined as the number of circuits controlled by a switch whereas “throws” are the number of separate positions of the switch.

Note: There are mainly two types of switches, which are electrical switches and mechanical switches. These two switches are further divided into categories depending upon the functionality. The various types of electrical switches are bipolar transistor, power diode, MOSFET, IGBT, SCR, TRIAC, DIAC, Gate turn-off thyristor. Also, various types of mechanical switches are Single pole Single throw, Single pole double throw, Double pole Single throw, Double pole Double throw, Two poles six throw, momentary control switches.