How is a 'short circuit' defined?

A 'short circuit' is defined as an electrical fault resulting in excess current flow along an unintended path. In this scenario, the electrical current bypasses the intended circuit path due to a low-resistance connection, which can lead to a rapid increase in current flow. This excess current can cause overheating, equipment damage, and even fires if not properly controlled or interrupted by protective devices, such as fuses or circuit breakers.

The term 'short circuit' highlights the fact that the electrical circuit has been 'shortened' or diverted from its normal route, which disrupts the standard operational parameters. Electrical systems are designed to function within certain current ranges, and when a short circuit occurs, it significantly exceeds these ranges and can cause serious safety hazards.

The other options do not accurately describe a short circuit: controlled current flow is characteristic of normal operations, simultaneous engagement of circuit breakers may indicate a fault but does not define a short circuit, and an interruption of current flow refers to an open circuit, which is distinctly different from the conditions created by a short circuit.