Which term describes a circuit with a complete path and no gaps?

• A. Complete circuit; no gaps. Electricity can flow.
• B. Incomplete circuit; there is a gap. Electricity cannot flow.
• C. Circuit with multiple paths; electricity can still flow if one path gets obstructed.
• D. Circuit with multiple paths; electricity will not flow if there is an obstruction.

Answer: (A)

Electric current needs a closed loop to flow. A complete circuit is a closed path with no gaps, so electrons can continuously travel from the power source, through the wires and any loads, and back to the source. That continuous path lets energy move through the circuit and power devices. If there’s even a gap, the loop is broken and current cannot flow, which is why an incomplete circuit stops electricity. In circuits with multiple paths, current can still flow as long as at least one continuous path exists; if all paths are interrupted, the circuit is effectively open and electricity stops.