What does resistance in an electrical circuit signify?

Resistance in an electrical circuit signifies the opposition to current flow. This means that, within a circuit, resistance determines how much current can flow when a voltage is applied. It is a crucial aspect of Ohm's Law, which states that the current through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage across the two points and inversely proportional to the resistance of the conductor.

In practical terms, higher resistance means less current will pass for a given voltage, while lower resistance allows more current to flow. This property helps in regulating and controlling the performance of electrical components and systems, ensuring they function safely and effectively. Understanding resistance is fundamental to designing circuits and predicting their behavior under different conditions, which is vital for anyone studying electrical engineering or working with electrical systems.