What type of circuit has all parts connected end to end to provide a single path for current?

A series circuit is characterized by having all its components connected end to end, creating a single pathway for electric current to flow. In this configuration, the current must pass through each component in sequence. This means that every device relies on the others being operational for the circuit to function as a whole; if one component fails or is disconnected, the entire circuit is broken, and no current can flow.

The nature of a series circuit leads to specific behavior regarding voltage and current. The total voltage across a series circuit is the sum of the individual voltages across each component, while the same current flows through all components. Understanding this fundamental concept is crucial for analyzing more complex electrical systems.

In contrast, parallel circuits feature multiple paths for current to flow, where each component is connected across the same voltage source. An open circuit does not allow any current to flow due to a break or disconnection in the circuit. A complex circuit typically incorporates both series and parallel components, making them more intricate to analyze than a straightforward series setup.