What circuit component must be connected in...

🔍 Key Concepts

• LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) are current-sensitive devices and can be damaged if too much current flows through them. • To limit current in a DC circuit, a specific type of component is typically placed in series with the load. • Capacitors and coils behave differently from resistors in a steady DC circuit.

💭 Think About

• Which component is normally used to control or limit current in a simple DC circuit with a battery and an LED? • In a steady DC circuit, what does a capacitor to ground mainly affect—voltage spikes, current level, or something else? • What is the basic purpose of a coil (inductor) in a circuit, and is that how you usually protect an LED?

✅ Before You Answer

• Identify which option’s primary function is to limit current in a DC circuit. • Eliminate any options whose main role is filtering, smoothing, or handling AC/ripple, not steady DC current limiting. • Confirm that the chosen component is commonly shown in beginner LED wiring diagrams between the power source and the LED.

What circuit component must be connected in series to protect an LED?

Bypass capacitor to ground.

Electrolytic capacitor.

Series resistor .

Shunt coil in series.