Which of the following are the two types of overcurrent?

The correct answer identifies the two primary types of overcurrent as overload and short-circuit.

Overload occurs when the current in a conductor exceeds the designed capacity of the circuit. This often happens when too many devices are connected and drawing power simultaneously, leading to overheating and potential damage. Overcurrent protection devices, such as fuses or circuit breakers, are essential in preventing equipment failure due to these excessive currents.

Short-circuit conditions arise when there is an unintended low-resistance connection between two conductors, which allows an excessive amount of current to flow. This can occur due to faults in wiring, insulation failures, or equipment malfunctions. Short-circuits pose a severe risk as they can generate significant heat and lead to fires or equipment failure if not immediately addressed via overcurrent protection.

Recognizing the distinction between these two types of overcurrent is critical for ensuring electrical safety and system reliability. The focus on overload and short-circuit is rooted in industry practices designed to protect circuits from potentially hazardous conditions.