Difference Between Insulator and Conductor
Introduction
Electricity is the backbone of modern civilization. It powers almost all of the devices we use today. Without electricity, our world would be very different. But to understand how electricity works, we need to understand the basics of insulators and conductors.
What is an Insulator?
An insulator is a material that does not conduct electricity. Insulators are used to protect people and equipment from electric shocks. They can be made of various materials, such as rubber, plastic, or glass. Insulators work by preventing the flow of electric current through them. That’s why electrical wires are always covered in insulators to prevent the electricity from passing through.
What is a Conductor?
A conductor is a material that allows electricity to flow through it. Conductors are used in electrical wiring, power cables, and electronic devices. Metals such as copper and aluminum are the most common conductors. When a voltage is applied to a conductor, electric current flows through it. This is why electrical wires are made of metal, usually copper or aluminum.
Difference between Insulator and Conductor
The main difference between insulators and conductors is that insulators do not conduct electricity while conductors do. This is because the atoms in conductors have free electrons that can move and carry the electric charge. On the other hand, insulators have tightly bound electrons, which do not allow the flow of electric current through them.
Applications of Insulators and Conductors
Insulators and conductors have numerous applications. Insulators are used in electrical and power distribution systems to prevent electric shocks and sparks. They are also used in electronic devices to prevent the flow of current between different components.
Conductors are used in electrical wiring, power transmission, and electronic devices. Copper and aluminum are the most common conductors used in electrical wiring. They are also used in the manufacture of electric motors and generators.
Conclusion
In conclusion, insulators and conductors are essential in the functioning of electrical devices. They have different properties and applications that make them uniquely useful in different settings. Knowing the difference between insulators and conductors is crucial in understanding how electricity works and how to safely work with it.
Table difference between insulator and conductor
| Property | Conductor | Insulator |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical conductivity | High | Low |
| Heat conductivity | High | Low |
| Charge transportation | Easy | Difficult |
| Material type | Metallic, e.g. copper, aluminum | Non-metallic, e.g. rubber, plastic |
| Electrical breakdown | High | Low |
| Resistance to electric field | Low | High |