What term refers to the ability of a component to resist the flow of electric current?

The term that refers to the ability of a component to resist the flow of electric current is known as resistance. In electrical circuits, resistance is a fundamental property that determines how much current will flow through a component when a voltage is applied. It is measured in ohms (Ω) and plays a crucial role in controlling and managing the flow of electrical current.

High resistance means that the component allows less current to flow, which can be useful in various applications where controlling the current is necessary, such as in resistors used for limiting current in circuits. Low resistance indicates that a component allows more current to flow with less opposition.

Understanding resistance is essential for analyzing and designing electrical circuits, as it affects how much current flows at a given voltage according to Ohm's Law, which states that current (I) is equal to voltage (V) divided by resistance (R).