Question

Which wire could be used as a fuse wire?
(This question has multiple correct options)
A. Nichrome wire
B. Zinc
C. Copper
D. SIlver

Answer 1

Hint: We all know that electric appliances work on current and a current passing through a conductor generates heat. Sometimes, the heat generated may exceed too much and damage the circuit components. A fuse wire helps in switching off the circuit, when the current exceeds a certain value.

Complete answer:
Fuse wires are used to protect the electrical appliances from the sudden increase in the current, which can damage the appliances. When current flows through a wire or any conductor, heat is generated within the wire due to the current. The heat generated in the wire is directly proportional to the square of the current flowing through it. Therefore, if the current in the circuit increases, more heat will be generated in the appliances and this can cause damages to the circuits of the appliances.
Therefore, the best solution to this problem is to switch off the circuit when the current exceeds a certain value. The fuse wires do this job. Fuse wires have a lower melting point than the other components of the circuits. These fuse wires are connected in series with the other components. When the current in the circuit is too much, the heat generated by this current will melt the fuse wire and there is a break in the circuit. Thus, the current is stopped from flowing before it damages the appliances.
The fuse wires are made up of zinc, copper, silver, aluminium or alloys.

Hence, the correct options are C. copper and D. silver.

Note:
Note that other than melting at high temperatures, the fuse wire elements must not oxidise or change their properties after a long time. If the elements get oxidized, the fuses may not work efficiently.