Conductors and insulators are materials that different in their ability to allow the flow of electric current. Here's a detailed comparison:

• Conductors

Definition: Materials that allow the free flow of electric current.

Characteristics:

• High Electrical Conductivity: Electrons move freely through the material.

• Examples: Metals like copper, silver, aluminum, and gold. Other examples include graphite and solutions of salts.

• Applications: Used in electrical wiring, components, and circuits due to their ability to conduct electricity efficiently.

• Thermal Conductivity: Often, good electrical conductors are also good thermal conductors.

• 
  

• Insulators

Definition: Materials that resist the flow of electric current.

Characteristics:

• Low Electrical Conductivity: Electrons do not move freely through the material.

• Examples: Rubber, glass, plastic, wood, and ceramics.

• Applications: Used to protect against unwanted flow of electricity, such as in coating for wires, insulating supports for electrical components, and housing for electronic devices.

• Thermal Conductivity: Generally, insulators are also poor thermal conductors.