What type of circuit has only one path for electricity to flow?

A series circuit is characterized by having only one path for electricity to flow. In this type of circuit, all components are connected one after another in a single loop, which means that the current must travel through each component sequentially. If one component fails or is removed, the entire circuit is interrupted, and the flow of electricity stops.

In contrast, a parallel circuit has multiple paths for electricity to flow. Each component is connected alongside one another, so if one component fails, the others can still operate. Complex circuits can include a combination of both series and parallel arrangements, thus not limiting the current to a single path. An open circuit indicates a break in the path, preventing current from flowing at all. Therefore, only a series circuit provides the specific characteristic of having a single path for the electrical current.