What issue can a loose connection lead to over time?

A loose connection in an electrical system can lead to short or open circuits over time. When connections are not secure, electrical current may struggle to flow through the circuit as intended. This can result in intermittent contact where the circuit either temporarily closes (short) or becomes completely non-conductive (open), disrupting the system's functionality.

Short or open circuits can cause a range of issues, from system malfunctions to complete failures, as the operational integrity of the circuit is compromised. For example, an open circuit prevents any current from flowing, which can shut down equipment. Conversely, a short circuit can create excess current pathways, potentially damaging components or even leading to hazards like overheating or fire.

Other choices may present related phenomena but do not capture the direct consequence of a loose connection as effectively as the correct answer. Decreased current flow and increased resistance are more likely to be symptoms or effects of a loose connection, but they do not encompass the complete picture of the problems resulting from it. A stable voltage supply would be unrealistic in a scenario where connections are loose, as instability is inherent to such a condition.