What is a short circuit?

A short circuit occurs when there is accidental contact between two insulated conductors, creating a pathway for electricity that bypasses the intended load. This can lead to excessive current flow in the circuit, potentially causing damage, overheating, or even fires because the current takes the path of least resistance.

In a properly functioning circuit, electricity flows through the intended components—like resistors, switches, or loads—and doesn’t unintentionally touch other conductive materials. The accidental contact that defines a short circuit disrupts this intended flow. The other options describe scenarios that do not encapsulate the nature of a short circuit. For example, a circuit functioning without faults or having a direct connection to a power source is not indicative of a short circuit and does not entail any unintended electrical pathways. Similarly, accidental contact that prevents current flow would not fit the definition, as the defining feature of a short circuit is that it allows current to flow in an uncontrolled manner.