In the context of lightning arrestors, what does the abbreviation MOV stand for?

The abbreviation MOV stands for Metal-Oxide Varistors, which are critical components used in lightning arrestors and surge protection devices. Metal-Oxide Varistors serve as protective devices that help prevent voltage spikes caused by lightning strikes or other transient voltage events from damaging electrical equipment. They work by changing resistance based on the voltage applied; under normal conditions, they have a high resistance to limit the flow of electricity. However, when a high voltage surge occurs, their resistance drops significantly, allowing them to absorb excess energy and divert it away from sensitive equipment.

This ability to clamp high-voltage spikes effectively makes MOVs essential for safeguarding electrical systems in substations and various other applications. Understanding the role of MOVs within lightning arrestor systems is key for managing electrical safety and reliability. In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the component used in lightning protection systems, as they refer to different concepts unrelated to the functionality of lightning arrestors.