Conductors and insulators of electricity
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Summary
Conductors and insulators of electricity
In a nutshell
Materials will conduct electricity in different ways. Conductors will conduct electricity, whereas insulators are not good at conducting electricity.
Electrical conductors
The conduction of electricity is the electricity flow through a material. Electrical conductors are materials that let electricity flow through them. These types of materials are useful to transport electricity.
Examples
Copper wires, aluminium, silver and iron.
Copper wires are used to transport electricity in electrical appliances.
Electrical insulators
Electrical insulators are materials that stop the flow of electricity. These types of materials are useful when preventing contact with electricity.
Examples
Plastic coating, rubber and glass.
Plastic coating is used around cables to prevent electricity flow. So, the copper wires in plugs have rubber insulation wrapped around them. Plug cases are made from plastics as they are good electrical insulators.
Example
What is rubber used for in terms of electricity conduction?
Rubber is used to insulate electrical wires, to stop the flow of electricity through them.
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of materials allow electricity to flow through them and which do not?
Conductors allow electricity to flow through them whereas insulators do not.
What are electrical insulators?
Electrical insulators are materials that do not allow electricity to flow.
What are electrical conductors?
Electrical conductors are materials that allow electricity to flow through them.