A parallel circuit is an electrical circuit where multiple components are connected across the same voltage source. This means that each component, such as resistors, light bulbs, or capacitors, has its own separate path for current to flow. If one component fails or is removed, the others continue to operate normally, as they are not dependent on each other. In a parallel circuit, the total current is the sum of the currents flowing through each component. The voltage across each component remains the same, equal to the voltage of the source. This configuration is commonly used in household wiring, allowing devices to function independently.