Electrical Conductors: Materials That Conduct Electricity

by Yuvi K - December 21, 2023

Materials That Conduct Electricity – How Do They Work?

Electricity is an essential part of modern life – it powers our homes, businesses, and even our vehicles. But what is electricity, and what materials are used to conduct it? Let’s take a look at the materials that conduct electricity and how they work.

What Is Electricity?

Electricity (बिजली) is the flow of electrons, or negatively charged particles, through a conductor, like a wire. A voltage (वोल्टेज) is applied to one end of the conductor, which causes an electric current (विद्युत धारा) to flow. Electric current is measured in units of amperes (अम्पीर) or amps (A).

Materials That Conduct Electricity

Different materials have different levels of conductivity. Those that allow electric current to flow through them easily are called conductors. Material that does not allow electric current to flow through them easily is called an insulator. Some of the common materials that are used to conduct electricity are:

Metals

Metals, such as copper and aluminum, are among the best electrical conductors. This is because metals contain free electrons that are able to move freely and easily in response to the applied voltage. Metals are commonly used to construct electrical wires and other types of conductors.

Carbon

Carbon is another material that is used to conduct electricity. Carbon conductors have a higher resistance than metals, so they are not as efficient. However, they are used in applications where a higher resistance is needed, such as in resistors.

Gases

While most gases are insulators, some can be used to conduct electricity. For example, noble gases such as argon and xenon can be used to fill a vacuum tube, which can be used as a conductor of electricity.

How It Works

When a voltage is applied to a conductor, the free electrons in the material become energized. The energized electrons move through the material, creating an electric current. The amount of current that is produced depends on the material, the voltage, and the size of the conductor.

Conductivity of Materials: Comparison Table

The following table provides a comparison of some of the most common materials used for electrical conductors.

Conclusion

Materials that conduct electricity are essential for transferring electricity from one place to another. Different materials have different levels of conductivity, which makes them suitable for different applications. Metals like copper and aluminum are commonly used in electrical cables, while carbon and air can be used for different purposes.

By understanding the qualities of different materials and how they conduct electricity, engineers and technicians can create efficient and safe systems for the transfer of electricity.