What type of circuit is characterized by multiple paths for current to flow?

A parallel circuit is characterized by multiple paths for current to flow, which means that the electrical components in this type of circuit are connected across common points or junctions. This allows the current to divide and travel through different branches simultaneously. In a parallel setup, if one branch of the circuit is interrupted or a component fails, current can still flow through the other branches, maintaining functionality.

This design is advantageous for many applications, such as in household wiring, where devices can operate independently from one another. As a result, switching devices on or off does not affect the entire circuit, providing a reliable and flexible electrical system. In contrast, series circuits only allow a single path for current flow; any break in this path disables the entire circuit, which can be less practical in many scenarios.