What type of circuit has multiple paths for current?

A parallel circuit is characterized by having multiple paths for electric current to flow. In a parallel configuration, components are connected across the same voltage source, allowing the current to split and travel through more than one path simultaneously. This means that if one path is interrupted or a component fails, the current can still flow through the other paths, maintaining the circuit's overall functionality. This also results in each component receiving the same voltage, which can improve the reliability and performance of the circuit.

In contrast, a series circuit has only one path for current. If one component in a series circuit fails or is removed, the entire circuit is interrupted, and current can no longer flow. A hybrid circuit may combine elements of both series and parallel circuits but doesn’t specifically define multiple paths for current in the way a parallel circuit does. An open circuit refers to a break in the path that stops current flow altogether, meaning there are no paths available for current to travel.