What is a key feature of the construction of a rotary switch?

A key feature of the construction of a rotary switch is that it consists of a single contact surrounded by a series of contacts. This design allows the switch to rotate and connect the single contact to different configurations of the surrounding contacts. Each position of the rotary switch correlates to a different electrical pathway, enabling the selection of one circuit while simultaneously keeping others isolated. This configuration is fundamental to the functionality of rotary switches, allowing for versatile control options in electrical applications.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the primary feature of a rotary switch. For instance, multiple interconnected circuit breakers refer to a different type of electrical protection system designed to interrupt current during overloads, which does not involve the rotating mechanism or configuration of a rotary switch. A complex series of fuses focuses on overcurrent protection and does not describe the operational mechanism of switching between contacts. Lastly, a relay connected to a load describes a component that uses electromagnetic principles to control a circuit but lacks the manual or mechanical switching action characteristic of rotary switches.