Electric circuit

Electric circuit, path followed by an electric current. It consists of 3 basic parts: an energy source (e.g., battery or generator) that converts nonelectric energy into electric energy, an output device (e.g., motor or lamp) that uses electric energy to do work, and a connection (e.g., wire or cable) that allows electric current to flow between the source and output device. Circuits can be switched on and off. An open circuit has gaps, preventing the current from completing its path, while a closed circuit has no gaps.

See also: Electricity.