At the time of short-circuit, the current in the circuit:

A short circuit occurs when an unintentional low-resistance connection is established between two points in an electrical system, such as when a live wire and neutral wire come into direct contact [2]. According to Ohm's Law, the current in a circuit is inversely proportional to its resistance [3]. During a short circuit, the resistance of the circuit drops to an abnormally low value, often approaching zero [3]. Because the voltage source remains relatively constant while the impedance becomes extremely low, the current experiences a significant surge or abrupt increase [3]. This uncontrolled flow of current is much higher than the normal load current, often reaching magnitudes 2 to 10 times the full load capacity [1]. Consequently, the current in the circuit increases heavily at the time of a short circuit, necessitating protective devices like fuses to prevent damage [1].

Sources

1. [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 12: Magnetic Effects of Electric Current > 12.4 DOMESTIC ELECTRIC CIRCUITS > p. 205
2. [2] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 11: Electricity > I = V/R (11.7) > p. 176
3. [3] https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/short-circuit-current