Which of the following components provides a protective measure by interrupting the flow of electricity in case of a ground fault?

The component that provides a protective measure by interrupting the flow of electricity in case of a ground fault is the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI). A GFCI is specifically designed to detect imbalances in electrical current between the hot and neutral wires. When a ground fault occurs, which can happen when current escapes the intended circuit and flows through an unintended path, the GFCI quickly disconnects the electrical supply, usually within milliseconds. This rapid disconnection is essential for preventing electric shock, especially in wet locations where ground faults are more likely to occur, such as bathrooms or kitchens.

While fuses and circuit breakers also provide protection by disconnecting current in the event of overload or short circuits, they do not specifically protect against ground faults. Relays are used for controlling circuits and do not serve the same protective role as a GFCI. Transformers are devices that change voltage levels and do not serve any protective function in electrical circuits related to ground faults. Therefore, the GFCI is the critical component designed exclusively for ground fault protection.