In a series circuit, how many paths does the current have to travel?

• A. One path for electrons to travel from the positive terminal to the negative terminal.
• B. Multiple parallel paths for electrons to travel.
• C. No path for electrons to travel.
• D. Current travels only when the switch is closed.

Answer: (A)

In a series circuit, there is a single continuous path for current to flow from the power source back to it. The electrons travel from the positive terminal, through each component in order, and return to the negative terminal. Because the path is single, the same current goes through every component, and if any part is opened, the whole circuit stops. This is why the description that there’s one path from the positive to the negative terminal fits best. Having multiple parallel paths would describe a parallel circuit, not a series one, and saying there’s no path would mean the circuit is open. Saying current travels only when the switch is closed is true for any circuit but doesn’t address the number of paths.