A conductor and an insulator are types of materials that have specific properties related to their ability to conduct electricity.
A conductor is a material that allows electricity to flow through it easily. This is because its electrons are less tightly bound to the atoms in the material, allowing them to move freely in response to an applied electric field. Examples of good conductors include metals such as copper, silver, and aluminum.
An insulator, on the other hand, is a material that does not allow electricity to flow through it easily. This is because its electrons are tightly bound to the atoms in the material, so they cannot move freely in response to an applied electric field. Examples of good insulators include rubber, glass, and plastic.
The main difference between conductors and insulators is in their resistance to the flow of electricity. Conductors have low resistance, meaning they do not impede the flow of electricity, while insulators have high resistance, meaning they prevent the flow of electricity. This is why copper wires are used to carry electricity in circuits, while plastic insulation is used to cover and protect the wires.