A circuit board is a flat piece of material that connects various electronic components, allowing them to work together. It is usually made of a non-conductive material, like fiberglass, with metal pathways etched onto its surface. These pathways, or traces, create a network that enables electricity to flow between components such as resistors, capacitors, and integrated circuits, which are essential for devices like computers and smartphones. In everyday life, you can find circuit boards in many gadgets, from your television to your microwave. They play a crucial role in making sure these devices function properly by controlling the flow of electricity and ensuring that signals are sent and received accurately.