What happens when a component fails in a series circuit?

In a series circuit, all components are connected along a single path, which means that the current must flow through each component sequentially. When a component fails – for example, if a bulb burns out or a resistor becomes disconnected – it creates an open circuit, interrupting the flow of current. As a result, the entire circuit is affected, and the current cannot flow through to the other components. This leads to a situation where none of the components within that series circuit can operate, resulting in a total circuit failure.

The nature of series circuits necessitates that all components be functional in order for the entire system to work; when one fails, it disrupts the complete path needed for current flow, leaving all other components non-functional as well.