If too much current flows through a conductor, what can occur?

When too much current flows through a conductor, overheating occurs due to the increased resistance encountered as the current moves through the conductor. According to Joule's law, the power (in the form of heat) generated in the conductor is proportional to the square of the current flowing through it and the resistance of the conductor. This excess heat can raise the temperature of the conductor to dangerous levels, leading to insulation breakdown, potential fires, or damage to the electrical components.

Additionally, while short-circuiting can result from excessive current, it is typically a specific failure mode rather than a direct consequence of high current. Electromagnetism describes the fundamental interaction between electric currents and magnetic fields but does not directly relate to the issue of overheating. In contrast, cooling would not typically occur when there is an excessive current flow; in fact, it would be the opposite reaction, as excessive current flow generates more heat. Thus, overheating is the most direct result of too much current passing through a conductor.