Step-by-step explanation:
Conductors and insulators are two types of materials that differ in their ability to conduct electrical current. Here are the key differences between conductors and insulators:
**Conductors:**
1. **Electrical Conductivity:** Conductors are materials that have high electrical conductivity. This means they allow the easy flow of electric charge, typically in the form of electrons. Metals like copper, aluminum, and silver are excellent electrical conductors.
2. **Free Electrons:** Conductors have a large number of free electrons that are loosely bound to their atomic structure. These free electrons can move easily when a voltage is applied, creating an electric current.
3. **Low Resistance:** Conductors have low electrical resistance, which means they offer little opposition to the flow of electric current.
4. **Used for Wiring:** Conductors are commonly used in electrical wiring and circuits to transmit electricity efficiently.
**Insulators:**
1. **Electrical Insulation:** Insulators are materials that have low electrical conductivity. They do not allow the easy flow of electric charge. Examples of insulators include rubber, glass, plastic, and wood.
2. **Tightly Bound Electrons:** Insulators have tightly bound electrons in their atomic structure. These electrons are not free to move, so they do not contribute to the flow of electric current.
3. **High Resistance:** Insulators have high electrical resistance, which means they strongly resist the flow of electric current.
4. **Used for Insulation:** Insulators are used to isolate and protect conductors in electrical systems. They are employed as insulating materials in wires, cables, and electrical devices to prevent electrical leakage and ensure safety.
In summary, conductors allow electric current to flow easily due to the presence of free electrons and low resistance, while insulators inhibit the flow of electric current because their tightly bound electrons and high resistance prevent the movement of charge. These differences make conductors suitable for carrying electricity, while insulators are used to insulate and protect conductive materials in electrical systems.