What defines a conductor in electrical terms?

In electrical terms, a conductor is defined as an object that allows electrical flow. This characteristic is primarily due to the presence of free-moving electrons within the material, which can carry electric charge easily when a potential difference (voltage) is applied. Conductors, like metals such as copper and aluminum, provide a pathway for electric current to travel, making them essential for a wide range of electrical applications, including wiring and circuit components.

The fundamental property that facilitates the easy flow of electricity through a conductor is its low resistance. The conductivity of a material determines how well it can conduct electrical current, with conductors having high conductivity due to their atomic structure, allowing electrons to move freely in response to an electric field. This property contrasts sharply with insulators, which prevent electrical flow by virtue of their high resistance.