Kirchhoff’s First Law (Junction Rule)

It states: $\sum i = 0$ at any junction.

This means the total current entering a junction equals the total current leaving it.

Since current is the rate of flow of charge, this law expresses that charge does not accumulate at a junction.

Therefore, Kirchhoff’s first law is based on: $\boxed{\text{Conservation of charge}}$

Kirchhoff’s Second Law (Loop Rule)

It states: $\sum iR = \sum E$ around any closed loop.

This means the total potential drop across resistors equals the total emf supplied in the loop.

This is a statement of conservation of energy, because energy gained by charges from sources is completely lost in circuit elements over one complete loop.

Therefore, Kirchhoff’s second law is based on: $\boxed{\text{Conservation of energy}}$

Match with options

• First law $\to$ conservation of charge
• Second law $\to$ conservation of energy

Hence the correct option is: $\boxed{\text{D}}$