What is the arrangement in which circuit components are connected in a line?

In a series circuit, circuit components are connected one after another in a single pathway. This means that the current flows through each component in turn, and all components share the same current. The arrangement results in a single loop for the electric current, allowing it to flow through each component, such as resistors or bulbs, sequentially.

In practical terms, if one component fails or is disconnected in a series arrangement, the entire circuit is interrupted, causing all components to stop functioning. This characteristic is crucial when considering the behavior of the circuit as a whole, as all parts are dependent on one another in a series configuration.

This is distinct from other arrangements, such as parallel circuits where components are connected across multiple pathways, allowing current to divert and continue flowing even if one path is disrupted. Understanding this fundamental difference helps in grasping the basic principles of electrical circuits and their behaviors.