A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is designed to do which of the following?

A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is specifically designed to detect imbalances in electrical current, which often indicate that some current is leaking to the ground. The device is calibrated to recognize when the current leakage exceeds a certain threshold, typically around 5 milliamperes (mA). When it detects this imbalance, it will quickly interrupt the flow of electricity to prevent electric shock or other hazards associated with ground faults.

This rapid response essentially helps to protect individuals from potentially life-threatening electric shocks that can occur when there is an unexpected path for electrical current, such as through a person's body. The ability to detect small amounts of leakage current is crucial for safety in environments where electrical devices come into contact with water or where individuals may be at an increased risk of electric shock.

The other options listed do not accurately describe the function of a GFCI. For instance, while surge protection is important in electrical systems, it is not the primary purpose of a GFCI. Similarly, a GFCI does not allow continued operations during a fault but instead cuts off the circuit to ensure safety. Lastly, increasing current flow to the ground contradicts the GFCI's role in mitigating electrical hazards.