What is the difference between series and parallel circuits?

In a series circuit, all components are connected along a single path, allowing electric current to flow through one component at a time. If one component fails or is disconnected, the entire circuit is interrupted, as there is only one route for the current to take.

On the other hand, parallel circuits consist of multiple paths for current to flow. Each component is connected across the same voltage source, so if one component fails, the current can still flow through the other paths, allowing the rest of the circuit to function normally.

This fundamental distinction is crucial for understanding how electrical systems operate, as it affects the overall behavior of the circuit in terms of voltage, current distribution, and reliability. In summary, series circuits are characterized by a single pathway for current, while parallel circuits provide multiple pathways, which impacts their performance and application in different electrical systems.