What do materials that conduct electricity refer to?

Materials that conduct electricity are referred to as conductors. Conductors are substances that allow the flow of electric charge (or electricity) with minimal resistance. This characteristic is due to the presence of free electrons that can move easily within the material when a voltage is applied, facilitating the transfer of electrical energy. Common examples of conductors include metals like copper and aluminum, which are widely used in electrical wiring and components due to their efficiency in conducting electricity.

In contrast, insulators do not allow electric charge to flow freely; they have tightly bound electrons that do not move easily, making them ideal for preventing unwanted electrical conduction. Semiconductors have electrical conductivity that falls between that of conductors and insulators, and their conductivity can be manipulated, which is essential for the functioning of electronic devices such as diodes and transistors. Resistors are components specifically designed to oppose the flow of electric current, creating a drop in voltage, but they do not inherently conduct electricity in the way conductors do.

Understanding the characteristics and roles of these materials is crucial for various applications in electrical and electronic systems.