What type of circuit component is used to limit current flow?

A resistor is specifically designed to limit current flow in a circuit. It does this by providing resistance, which opposes the flow of electric charge. According to Ohm's Law, the relationship between voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R) is given by the formula V = IR. When a resistor is introduced into a circuit, it limits the current based on its resistance value while still allowing voltage to drop across it.

In contrast, a capacitor stores energy in an electric field and can influence current flow, but it doesn't inherently limit it in the same manner as a resistor. An inductor stores energy in a magnetic field and impacts current in alternating current (AC) circuits through inductive reactance. A transistor, while it can control the flow of current, does so by acting as a switch or amplifier rather than directly limiting current like a resistor does. Therefore, the function of a resistor as a current limiter is essential in managing the performance and safety of electrical circuits.