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In an ideal steady-state circuit, why can current not simply 'disappear' at a junction?
ABecause voltage is same in every branch
BBecause resistance at a junction is infinite
CBecause electric charge is conserved
DBecause current always flows in only one direction
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. Because electric charge is conserved
Current is the rate of flow of charge. If current disappeared at a junction, charge would be lost there, violating conservation of charge. That is why total incoming current must equal total outgoing current.
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