Which circuit configuration typically has the greater resistance?

In a series circuit, all components are connected end-to-end, so the current flows through each component sequentially. The total resistance in a series circuit is simply the sum of the individual resistances of all components connected in the circuit. This means that as more resistive components are added, the total resistance increases.

In contrast, in a parallel circuit, multiple paths are available for current to flow, which tends to reduce the overall resistance. The total resistance in a parallel circuit can be calculated using the formula that combines the reciprocals of each individual resistance, resulting in a lower total resistance than that of any single component.

A combination circuit includes both series and parallel components, leading to a more complex resistance calculation that usually results in a total resistance that can vary widely but is often less than that of a pure series circuit depending on how the components are arranged.

Finally, a short circuit represents a situation where an unintended low-resistance path is created, dramatically decreasing the overall resistance and allowing excessive current flow.

Thus, the nature of series circuits, with their additive property of resistance, gives them greater resistance compared to other configurations, making series circuits the correct choice.