Which type of circuit allows current to flow through only one path?

A series circuit is defined by its configuration where components are connected along a single pathway, resulting in the flow of electric current through each component in succession. Since there is only one path for the current to travel, if any component fails or is disconnected, the entire circuit is broken and current ceases to flow.

In contrast, a parallel circuit features multiple pathways for current to flow, allowing electricity to navigate through one or more paths regardless of the status of the others. Open circuits are incomplete and do not allow current to flow at all, while closed circuits are complete circuits that allow current to flow but may have multiple paths, especially in the case of a parallel arrangement.

Thus, the defining characteristic of a series circuit makes it the only type of circuit that restricts the flow of current to just one path.