What typically causes high resistance in electrical circuits?

High resistance in electrical circuits is typically caused by corroded or loose terminals or wires. When connections degrade due to corrosion, oxidation, or looseness, the path for electrical current becomes compromised. This increased resistance can lead to various issues such as reduced current flow, overheating, and poor performance of electrical components.

Corrosion can create an insulating layer on the conductor surfaces, which hinders the flow of electricity. Similarly, loose connections can interrupt the continuity of the circuit, introducing additional resistance where there should be none. This high resistance can affect the overall efficiency of the system and may lead to failures in electrical devices if not addressed.

The other possibilities, such as overloaded circuits and shorts to ground, do not typically result in high resistance; rather, they can cause low resistance or potentially hazardous conditions. Excessive current flow can also lead to overheating and damage, but it does not directly relate to the concept of high resistance in a circuit.