_______ circuits distribute the electricity from the circuit breaker or fuse panel throughout the building.

Branch circuits are the components of an electrical system that extend the supply of electricity from the main circuit breaker or fuse panel to the various outlets and devices installed throughout a building. They ensure that individual areas or rooms receive power for lighting, appliances, and other electrical needs.

Typically, each branch circuit is protected by its own circuit breaker or fuse, which helps to prevent overloads and electrical fires. Understanding the role of branch circuits is essential for fire investigation technicians, as issues like overloaded branch circuits or faulty wiring can lead to electrical fires, making them a critical focus when determining the cause of a fire in a structure.

Main circuits generally refer to the primary source of electricity entering a building, while power circuits may denote specialized circuits for heavy-duty appliances or machinery. Distribution circuits is a broader term that might encompass various types of circuits involved in delivering electricity but does not specifically refer to the circuits that connect to outlets and appliances in a building.