What connects all the components in a series circuit?

In a series circuit, all components are arranged in a single continuous loop, so that the same current flows through each part of the circuit. This means that if you were to trace the path of the electrical current, you would start at one point, follow through each component (such as resistors, bulbs, or capacitors), and return to the starting point without any breaks or branches along the way.

This arrangement ensures that every component must be functioning for the circuit to operate. If one component fails or is removed, the loop is broken, and the current cannot flow at all, which is a characteristic feature of series circuits. The continuous nature of the loop dictates that the current remains the same throughout the entire circuit, leading to a predictable behavior of voltage and resistance as governed by Ohm's Law.

In contrast, separate loops or multiple paths suggest a parallel circuit configuration, where components are connected alongside each other and can operate independently. Paralleled connections imply that there are various routes for current to take, allowing for multiple paths. Thus, the essence of a series circuit lies entirely in its single, continuous loop that links all components together.