What do we call materials that do not conduct electricity easily?

Materials that do not conduct electricity easily are referred to as insulators. Insulators inhibit the flow of electric current due to their high resistance to electrical conductivity. This characteristic makes them essential in various applications where electrical insulation is necessary, such as in wiring, where they prevent unintended flow of electricity and protect users from electric shock. Common examples of insulators include rubber, glass, and certain plastics.

Conductors, on the other hand, allow electricity to flow freely and are typically made from materials like copper and aluminum. Semiconductors possess electrical conductivity between that of conductors and insulators and are critical in electronic devices, where they can be manipulated to either conduct or resist electricity based on external conditions. Electrolytes are substances that produce an electrically conducting solution when dissolved in a solvent, typically water, and are often involved in battery technology. Each of these materials serves a distinct purpose based on their ability to conduct electricity, making the understanding of insulators particularly important for safety and functionality in electrical systems.