Question

Difficulty: EasyConductors, Insulators, and Semiconductors

Match each electrical material to its correct classification and physical property.

  • SilverConductor that permits easy electron flow due to a high concentration of free electrons
  • SiliconSemiconductor containing four valence electrons with intermediate electrical conductivity
  • RubberFlexible insulator whose tightly bound electrons prevent electric current flow
  • CeramicRigid, heat-resistant insulator commonly used to support and isolate high-voltage lines

Answer

Silver matches with the conductor having high free electron concentration; Silicon matches with the semiconductor having four valence electrons; Rubber matches with the flexible insulator; Ceramic matches with the rigid, heat-resistant insulator.
Materials are classified by their atomic structure and ability to carry electrical current. Silver contains loosely bound electrons making it an excellent conductor; Silicon contains four valence electrons making it a semiconductor; Rubber has tightly bound electrons making it a flexible insulator; Ceramic has tightly bound ionic and covalent bonds making it a rigid, heat-resistant insulator.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the conductor among the listed materials.
Silver is a metal with a high density of free valence electrons, allowing electrical current to pass with minimal resistance.
Conductors readily allow electron flow due to loosely bound valence electrons.
2
Identify the semiconductor among the listed materials.
Silicon contains four valence electrons, giving it an intermediate conductivity level between conductors and insulators.
Group IV elements like silicon and germanium serve as the foundational materials for solid-state electronics.
3
Distinguish between the two insulating materials by their mechanical and thermal properties.
Rubber is a flexible insulator commonly used on cables, while ceramic is a rigid, heat-resistant insulator used in high-voltage applications.
Both materials possess tightly bound electrons that resist current flow, but serve distinct structural applications.

Key Concept

Classification of materials into conductors, semiconductors, and insulators based on electron mobility and atomic structure
Estimated Time:45s
Rate this question