Electrical Conductivity Insulators and Conductors

Insulators An electrical insulator is a substance that resists or blocks the movement of electrons Insulators can hold a static charge because static charges remain nearly fixed in place Examples of good insulators: plastic, glass, dry wood

Conductors An electrical conductor is a substance in which electrons can move freely If a conductor becomes negatively charged with electrons, they move freely along the conductor Examples of good conductors: copper, aluminum

Common Conductors and Insulators Good Conductors Fair Conductors Good Insulators Silver Copper Gold Aluminum Magnesium Nickel Mercury Platinum Iron Carbon Human body Moist human skin Acid solutions Salt water Earth Water vapour (in air) Oil Fur Silk Wool Rubber Glass Plastic Wood Paper Wax