What type of electric circuit allows multiple paths for current to flow?

A parallel circuit is characterized by its ability to provide multiple paths for electric current to flow. In this type of circuit, the components are connected across common points or junctions, meaning that each component has its own direct connection to the voltage source. As a result, if one path is interrupted or if one component fails, current can still flow through the other paths, allowing the remaining components to continue functioning.

This is in contrast to a series circuit, where components are connected end-to-end in a single path for the current to flow. If one component fails in a series circuit, the entire circuit is interrupted, and current cannot flow. A combination circuit contains elements of both series and parallel circuits but does not specifically highlight the feature of having multiple paths as clearly as a parallel circuit does. An open circuit refers to a broken path in which current cannot flow at all.

Thus, the defining characteristic of a parallel circuit is its ability to allow current to flow through multiple paths, making it the correct choice in this scenario.