What is the role of a current shunt in measuring current?

The role of a current shunt in measuring current is to facilitate the calculation of current by utilizing voltage. A current shunt is a precisely designed low-resistance device that is placed in series with the electrical circuit. When current flows through the shunt, it produces a small voltage drop, which is directly proportional to the amount of current flowing through it, according to Ohm's Law (V = I × R).

By measuring this voltage drop across the shunt, you can easily calculate the current passing through it. This method is particularly useful because it allows for accurate current measurements without interrupting the circuit or requiring the use of bulky current transformers, thus providing a more efficient means of monitoring current in a variety of applications.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary function of a current shunt; for instance, a current shunt does not convert AC to DC, nor does it measure voltage directly, and while it does contribute to system stability indirectly by providing accurate measurements, stabilization of electrical output is not its main role.