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.

Science; Materials; KS2 Year 5; Conductors and insulators of electricity

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.

Science; Materials; KS2 Year 5; Conductors and insulators of electricity

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.