In a circuit, what does the term "total current" refer to?

Total current in a circuit refers to the current that flows through all components connected in a series. When components are arranged in a series circuit, the same current flows through each component one after the other, meaning that the total current is uniform across the entire circuit.

In this context, it is important to recognize that in a series circuit, the total current is not dependent on individual components or their resistances but rather the single pathway that the current follows. Therefore, when looking to define total current, it is the cumulative flow of electric charge through all series-connected loads that defines it.

The current through the largest resistor is not a complete depiction of total current since, in a series circuit, all components carry the same current. Additionally, average current, as described in another option, is not a applicable term for series circuits where the current remains constant. Lastly, while current returning to the source is a part of a closed-loop circuit, it does not define total current in the sense used in this scenario.