What device provides a path to ground for excessive voltage surges?

A lightning arrestor is specifically designed to protect electrical equipment by providing a safe path to ground for excessive voltage surges, such as those caused by lightning strikes. When a surge occurs, the lightning arrestor diverts the excess voltage away from the equipment, preventing damage to sensitive components. This makes it a critical safety device in electrical systems, particularly in areas prone to thunderstorms and lightning.

While fuses and circuit breakers are protective devices that interrupt electrical circuits to prevent overload and short circuits, they do not specifically provide a path to ground for voltage surges. A transformer, on the other hand, is used to change voltage levels and does not serve the purpose of grounding excess voltage. Thus, the lightning arrestor is the most appropriate choice for managing and protecting against harmful voltage surges.