Materials can be classified as conductors, semiconductors, or insulators based on their electrical conductivity. Conductors have high conductivity and allow electric current to flow easily, while insulators have low conductivity and do not allow current to flow. Semiconductors have conductivity values between those of conductors and insulators.
Electrical conductivity is denoted by the symbol σ and has SI units of siemens per meter (S/m). In electrical engineering, the Greek letter κ is used. Sometimes the Greek letter γ represents conductivity. In water, conductivity is often reported as specific conductance, which is a measure compared to that of pure water at 25°C.
Relationship Between Conductivity and ResistivityElectrical conductivity (σ) is the reciprocal of the electrical resistivity (ρ):
σ = 1/ρ
where resistivity for a material with a uniform cross section is:
ρ = RA/l
where R is the electrical resistance, A is the cross-sectional area, and l is the length of the material. Electrical conductivity gradually increases in a metallic conductor as the temperature is lowered.
Materials With Good and Poor Electrical ConductivityExamples of excellent conductors include:
- Silver
- Copper
- Gold
- Aluminum
- Zinc
- Nickel
- Brass