What electrical component is used to resist the flow of current?

The resistor is an electrical component specifically designed to impede the flow of electric current. Its primary function is to provide resistance within a circuit, which helps to control the current flow and manage voltage levels. By incorporating a resistor in a circuit, you can limit the amount of current that flows, allowing for the safe operation of other components by preventing excess current that could damage sensitive parts.

Resistors are characterized by their resistance value, measured in ohms, and they follow Ohm's Law, which relates voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R) in the formula V = IR. This makes resistors essential in a wide range of applications, from adjusting signal levels to dividing voltages or protecting components from excessive current.

Understanding the functionality of resistors is crucial in electrical and electronic design, as they help ensure that circuits operate as intended and maintain component safety.