Which symbol is used to represent a switch in electrical diagrams?

In electrical diagrams, a switch is typically represented by a line with a break, which indicates that there is a point in the circuit where the current can be interrupted or diverted. This broken line symbolizes that the switch can open or close the flow of electricity, allowing devices connected to the circuit to be turned on or off as needed.

The design of the symbol conveys the essential function of the switch as it visually depicts the interruption in the circuit path. Being able to recognize this symbol is crucial for anyone working with electrical circuits, as it helps in understanding how the system operates and how devices can be controlled. The other options represent different components; for instance, a circle often signifies a connection point, a zigzag line can represent a resistor, and a pair of diagonal lines is commonly used to depict a transformer. Recognizing these distinctions is key for effective reading and comprehension of electrical schematics.