When a switch has to break a current it is usually expected that there will be some inductance in the load that is being turned off which will try to maintain current flow. As a result an 'arc' will form across the contacts which needs to be extinguished before the switch turns of properly. Without knowing the technology there are various ways the switch can be constructed to improve its performance in this respect. You will find that the switch probably has two different breaking ratings. One for, nominally, resistive loads and one for inductive loads. You will also find some switches specifically related for motor loads where the breaking situation is worse.
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