Wiring and componentsQuestion 825 of 1506

Why is the wire inside a fuse made as short as practical?

  1. A shorter wire blows at a lower current than a longer wire would.
  2. A shorter wire stops arcing across the gap after the fuse blows, so it is safer.
  3. Length does not change the blow current, and short wire adds less resistance.
  4. A shorter wire lets the fuse carry a higher voltage rating.
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Correct answer: Length does not change the blow current, and short wire adds less resistance.

Current rating depends on material and gauge, not length. Short wire keeps the added resistance small.

Source: Lessons in Electric Circuits I: DC (Kuphaldt), 12.4: Fuses

Practice wiring and components

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026