Which component is used to limit current in a voltage regulator circuit?

In a voltage regulator circuit, a resistor is commonly used to limit current. Resistors are fundamental components that can effectively control the flow of current by providing a specific level of resistance in the circuit. When a resistor is placed in series with the load, it reduces the amount of current that can pass through based on Ohm's Law (Voltage = Current x Resistance). This is crucial in maintaining a consistent and safe voltage level to the connected components and preventing excess current that could damage sensitive electronics.

Other components mentioned have different primary functions. Capacitors, for example, are used for energy storage and filtering, but they do not serve to directly limit current flow in the same way a resistor does. Transformers change voltage levels for AC signals but are not directly used for current regulation in this context. Inductors store energy in a magnetic field and can influence current flow but do not act as a straightforward current limiting component. Therefore, the use of a resistor is most appropriate for current limitation in voltage regulator circuits.