What does the term 'overcurrent' refer to?

The term 'overcurrent' specifically refers to any current that exceeds the rated current capacity of electrical equipment. This condition can occur during a fault, such as a short circuit, or when the equipment is subjected to excessive load. When overcurrent happens, it can lead to overheating, component damage, or even fire hazards if protective measures, such as fuses or circuit breakers, do not operate correctly. Understanding the concept of overcurrent is crucial in fire investigation and safety, as it can be a key factor in identifying the cause of electrical fires. The other terms provided do not align with the definition of overcurrent; they refer to current that is within safe limits or operational parameters, rather than exceeding them.