Which of the following is a characteristic of a series circuit?

In a series circuit, one of the defining characteristics is that the current flowing through all components is the same. This occurs because there is only one path for the current to travel. As a result, the total current entering the circuit from the power source also flows through each component without any division.

This characteristic is essential for understanding how series circuits function. When additional components, such as resistors or bulbs, are added in series, they do not alter the current's uniformity; rather, they may affect the total resistance and therefore the overall current flow based on Ohm's Law (I = V/R). This concept is crucial in applications where a consistent current is necessary across all elements, such as in some types of lighting systems.

Other characteristics, such as voltage being divided among components, pertain to series circuits, but they do not define the current's behavior. Voltage varies across each component, depending on their individual resistances. Therefore, underlining the uniform current in a series circuit is critical for understanding its operation and for troubleshooting potential issues with current flow in practical applications.