In a parallel circuit, how is the current distributed?

In a parallel circuit, the defining characteristic is that it provides multiple paths for the current to flow. Each component in a parallel circuit is connected directly to the voltage source; therefore, each path has the same voltage across it. As a result, the total current flowing from the power source is divided among these multiple paths according to the resistance of each component. The overall current in the circuit is equal to the sum of the currents through each individual path.

This means that if additional components are added in parallel, they create additional paths for the current to flow, which can lead to an increase in total current drawn from the source, depending on the resistance of those components. However, the principle remains that current can be distributed across three or more paths, allowing for redundancy and the continued functioning of the circuit even if one path fails.