What characterizes a parallel circuit?

A parallel circuit is characterized by the presence of more than one path for electric current to flow. In this configuration, multiple components are connected alongside each other, allowing current to divide among the available paths. This means that if one path is broken or a component fails, other paths can still carry current, maintaining the overall functionality of the circuit to some extent.

For instance, in household wiring, different devices like lights and appliances can operate independently; if one device is turned off or disconnected, the others remain unaffected because they are connected in parallel. This is a fundamental property of parallel circuits that distinguishes them from series circuits, where all components are connected in a single path. In a series circuit, an open in any part of the circuit would stop the current flow to all devices.

The other options highlight different characteristics that do not apply to parallel circuits. All components being in series suggests a single path, which contradicts the definition of parallel circuits. Only having one path for current flow also indicates a series connection, while the current flowing in one direction exclusively refers to direct current (DC), a property not limited to the configuration of the circuit itself. Thus, the defining feature of a parallel circuit is its ability to provide multiple paths for current, making option