What is the purpose of a fuse in an electrical circuit?

A fuse serves a crucial role in an electrical circuit by protecting the circuit from excessive current. When the current flowing through the circuit exceeds a certain level, the fuse will melt or blow, breaking the circuit and thereby preventing potential damage to the wiring and connected devices. This function is vital for safeguarding against electrical fires and equipment failure that could be caused by overcurrent conditions.

The other choices do not accurately describe the function of a fuse. While increasing voltage would be a characteristic of a transformer, measuring current requires devices like ammeters, and storing electrical energy typically involves capacitors or batteries. Thus, the role of the fuse is specifically focused on maintaining safety by interrupting the flow of electricity when it becomes potentially dangerous.