What two issues do fuses protect equipment against in electrical systems?

Fuses serve as critical safety devices in electrical systems by protecting equipment from faults and overcurrent conditions. Faults can include short circuits, where the current takes an unintended path, potentially causing damage to equipment due to excessive current flow. Overcurrent refers to any condition in which the electrical current exceeds the safe carrying capacity of a circuit, which can lead to overheating and ultimately failure of electrical components.

By blowing or melting under these conditions, fuses disconnect the electrical circuit, thus preventing further damage and maintaining system integrity. This functionality is essential in ensuring the reliability and safety of electrical installations, making the option that highlights faults and overcurrent the correct answer.