In a simple electric circuit, which component is specifically designed to provide resistance and oppose the flow of current?

• A. A capacitor
• B. An ideal wire
• C. A resistor
• D. An inductor

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of each component in an electric circuit: a capacitor stores electrical energy, an ideal wire offers negligible resistance, an inductor stores energy in a magnetic field, and a resistor opposes current flow.
2. Recall that resistance is the property of a component that limits or opposes the flow of electric current, converting electrical energy into heat.
3. Identify that the component designed specifically to provide resistance is called a resistor.
4. Recognize that capacitors and inductors do not primarily provide resistance; instead, they store energy in electric and magnetic fields respectively.
5. Conclude that the resistor is the component that provides resistance and opposes the flow of current in a simple electric circuit.