What characterizes a series circuit?

A series circuit is characterized by components being connected end-to-end, creating a single path for the electric current to flow. In this arrangement, the current that flows through one component must flow through all the other components in the circuit as well. This connection configuration ensures that the total voltage across the series circuit is equal to the sum of the individual voltage drops across each component.

The simultaneous flow of current through all components illustrates the dependence of the circuit elements on one another; if one component fails or is disconnected, the entire circuit becomes open and current cannot flow.

Connecting components across common points describes a parallel circuit, where each component has its own path for current flow, allowing them to operate independently of one another. The idea that all components share the same resistance is not accurate in a series circuit since the total resistance is the sum of individual resistances. Furthermore, the notion of independent current flow through any component contradicts the fundamental principle of a series connection, where the same current passes through all components.