What is a short circuit primarily characterized by?

A short circuit is primarily characterized by bypassing a designed conducting path. In an electrical system, current is intended to flow along specific pathways, usually through resistive elements that control the flow and ensure safe operation. However, in a short circuit scenario, the current finds an unintended route with very low resistance, often directly connecting two conductive points.

This bypass results in an excessive amount of current flowing through the circuit, which can lead to several adverse effects, such as overheating, equipment damage, and potential fire hazards. Identifying and understanding this fundamental characteristic of a short circuit is crucial for ensuring safety and reliability in electrical systems. The other options do not accurately describe a short circuit, as they imply normal operational conditions rather than the malfunction represented by a short circuit.