Define short circuit.

A short circuit occurs when electricity flows along an unintended path with little or no resistance. This situation typically arises when the conductive materials that should be separated come into contact due to a fault or failure in the circuit, providing an alternate route for the current. Because this path has significantly less resistance compared to the intended circuit pathway, it can result in a sudden increase in current flow.

This can lead to a variety of problems, such as overheating, damage to circuit components, or even fires, as the excess current generates heat. Understanding this concept is crucial for diagnosing electrical issues and ensuring safe circuit designs. In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe a short circuit, as they either pertain to different circuit failures or conditions that do not involve an unintended path for the current.