Materials that do not provide an easy path for the flow of electrons are called what?

The term used for materials that do not provide an easy path for the flow of electrons is insulators. Insulators are characterized by their high resistance to electrical current, which means they prevent the flow of electricity. Common examples of insulators include rubber, glass, and certain plastics. These materials are essential in electrical applications because they help to contain electrical currents within conductive pathways and protect users from electric shock.

In contrast, conductors are materials that allow electricity to flow freely, such as copper and aluminum. Semiconductors have properties that fall between conductors and insulators and can conduct electricity under certain conditions, such as when they are doped with impurities. Superconductors are materials that can conduct electricity without resistance under specific conditions, typically at very low temperatures. Understanding these categories helps in selecting the right materials for specific applications in electrical work.