The difference between conductors and insulators

The difference between conductors and insulators

Substances can be classified into conductors, semiconductors, and insulators based on their conductivity. As we all know, there are many free electrons in metals. Under the action of an electric field, the free electrons move in a directional manner to form an electric current, so metals have good conductivity and are conductors.

In materials such as plastics and mica, although they also contain a large number of electrons, these electrons are tightly bound around the atomic nucleus and cannot move freely. Therefore, even if a strong electric field is applied, these electrons will not undergo directional motion and cannot form an electric current. Therefore, this type of material belongs to insulators.