The statement 'It is important to make and break contacts as quickly as possible to extinguish the arc promptly and to extend the life of the contacts and contactor' is true. Which option best represents this assessment?

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not true
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (A)

Reducing the arc time during switching is essential for protecting the contacts and extending the life of the contactor. When the contacts separate under load, an electric arc forms between them. This arc carries current, produces heat, and causes pitting and wear on the contact surfaces. If the make and break actions happen more quickly, the arc is extinguished sooner, cutting down the total arc exposure, which lowers heat and erosion and thus prolongs life. So the statement is true. In practice, the goal is to minimize arc duration while maintaining safe and reliable operation, rather than letting arcing last longer or ignoring it.