Which type of circuit has a single path for current to flow?

A series circuit is characterized by having a single path for current to flow. In this type of circuit, all components are connected end-to-end in a single loop. This means that the same current flows through all components without branching out. If any component in a series circuit fails or is removed, the entire circuit is interrupted, which stops the flow of current.

Understanding this setup is fundamental in electrical applications, as it highlights how voltage divides among components and how resistance can affect the total current in the circuit. For example, if three resistors are connected in series, the total resistance of the circuit is the sum of the individual resistances, impacting the overall current based on Ohm's Law.

In contrast, parallel circuits allow multiple paths for current to flow, resulting in different behaviors that do not fit the criteria of having a single path. Open circuits indicate a break in the circuit leading to no current flow, while closed circuits refer to complete circuits where current can flow, but they can have multiple paths (as in parallel circuits) or a single path (as in series circuits). Therefore, the series circuit's distinctive feature of having only one pathway for current is what makes it the correct answer.