What is the primary purpose of a circuit breaker?

A circuit breaker is designed primarily to automatically interrupt the flow of electricity in the event of an overload or short circuit. This is critical for protecting electrical circuits and devices from damage that can result from excessive current. By cutting off the electrical flow, a circuit breaker prevents potential hazards, such as overheating wires or even fires, which can arise from prolonged overload conditions.

The other options highlight functions that do not align with the main role of a circuit breaker. While enhancing electrical flow and guaranteeing an uninterrupted power supply may be functions related to electrical systems, they do not describe the safety mechanism that a circuit breaker provides. Monitoring energy consumption is a task typically associated with submeters or energy management systems rather than the protective role of circuit breakers. Thus, the primary function of a circuit breaker revolves around safety by interrupting electricity during overload situations.