Final answer:
In a parallel circuit, a short circuit causes the current to predominantly flow through the short circuit branch, bypassing the other components in the circuit.
Step-by-step explanation:
In a parallel circuit, each component has its own separate branch and the current can flow through each branch independently. When a short circuit occurs in any branch of a parallel circuit, it creates a low-resistance path across the voltage source. This means that the current will predominantly flow through the short circuit branch, bypassing the other components in the circuit. As a result, the other branches will experience a decrease in current flow and may not function properly.