What would a very low resistance reading indicate during a short circuit test?

A very low resistance reading during a short circuit test indicates a short circuit condition. This occurs because a short circuit provides a path of minimal resistance for current to flow, often bypassing normal circuit elements like loads and protective devices. When testing for short circuits, you expect to see resistance values that approach zero ohms, which signifies that the two points being measured are essentially shorted together, resulting in an abnormal condition where excess current can flow.

This is critical to identify, as it can lead to overheating, equipment damage, or even fire hazards if not addressed promptly. Understanding how resistance readings correlate with circuit conditions helps technicians troubleshoot and maintain systems effectively. In contrast, normal circuits should show higher resistance readings, and an open circuit would show infinite resistance, while a faulty transformer could potentially cause a short, but the immediate indication of resistance would still lean toward a short circuit scenario.