Conductors and insulators are materials classified based on their ability to allow the flow of electric current.
- Conductors are materials that allow electric current to pass through them easily due to the presence of a large number of free electrons. Examples include copper, aluminum, and silver.
- Insulators are materials that resist the flow of electric current because they have very few or no free electrons. Examples include rubber, plastic, glass, and wood.
Key differences:
- Conductors have low resistivity, while insulators have high resistivity
- Conductors support current flow, while insulators block it
- Conductors are used in wiring, whereas insulators are used for safety and protection
Understanding this difference is essential for designing safe and efficient electrical systems.