Why Are Some Materials Better Conductors/Insulators than Others?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the conductivity of materials, emphasizing that metals are superior conductors due to their free electrons, while non-metals are generally insulators because they lack these electrons. It is established that the atomic structure significantly influences conductivity; solids conduct better than gases due to closer atomic proximity. The conversation also touches on the differences between metallic, covalent, and ionic compounds in terms of conductivity, suggesting that the specific atomic arrangement determines their conductive properties.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of atomic structure and electron behavior
  • Knowledge of thermal conductivity principles
  • Familiarity with material science concepts
  • Basic chemistry concepts regarding metallic, covalent, and ionic bonds
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  • Research the role of free electrons in metallic conductivity
  • Explore thermal conductivity in non-metals and insulators
  • Investigate the differences in conductivity among metallic, covalent, and ionic compounds
  • Learn about the impact of temperature on the conductivity of various materials
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Students, educators, and professionals in physics, chemistry, and materials science who are interested in understanding the principles of conductivity and the behavior of different materials.

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why are some materials better conductors/insulators than others?

it'll helped if explained at the atomic level

thanks
 
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Is this a homework question? If so.. post some of your thoughts on the matter.
 
no, it's not a homework question. Just asking because i feel curious

after thinking about it for abit, i guess that the rate of conduction is related to the density of the object. So... a solid is a better conductor than a gas because the atoms in a solid are closer together. However is this true for metal ( a good conductor) and rubber ( a bad conductor)? Are my thoughts right?
 
You are right on your thoughts about a solid being a better conductor than a gas. Metals are better conductors that nonmetals, since they have free electrons which can move thoughout the substance. A metal structure is made up of positive ions fixed into place, with a "sea" of free electrons. If one end of a metal rod gets heated, then the ions at that end vibrate faster, and so an electron colliding with it gains kinetic energy, then moves to the colder end, and collides with an ion there, passing on the kinetic energy.

In non-metals, there are no free electrons, and the only way in which heat is passed down the material is by the ions vibrating, and pssing these vibrations onto their nearest neighbour.
 
ah so it really depends on the atomic structure of the material. If so, how does metallic, covalent and ionic compounds compare. Is one generally more conductive than the other, or it really depends?

Thankas cristo
 

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