Which of the following connects devices in a circuit board?

A trace is the correct answer because it refers to the conductive pathways on a circuit board that connect different components. These traces are made of metal, typically copper, and they facilitate the flow of electrical signals between components such as resistors, capacitors, and microchips. A well-designed circuit board utilizes traces of different widths and lengths to create efficient connections and ensure proper functioning of the electronic device.

In contrast, a bus is a system of pathways that carries data signals, but it is generally a broader concept referring to a communication system within a computer, not specifically about circuit board connections. A port typically refers to an interface on the outside of a device for connecting peripheral hardware, and a slot refers to a physical receptacle and does not involve the internal connections made by traces. Understanding the role of traces is essential for recognizing how circuit boards operate and how electrical signals are transmitted within electronic devices.