A parallel circuit is a type of electrical circuit where multiple components are connected across the same voltage source. In this arrangement, each component has its own direct path to the power source, allowing electricity to flow through each branch independently. If one component fails, the others continue to operate, making parallel circuits reliable for many applications. In a parallel circuit, the total current is the sum of the currents flowing through each branch. The voltage across each component remains the same, which is equal to the voltage of the power source. This characteristic is useful in devices like household appliances and lighting systems, where consistent performance is essential.