What are the reasons for the charges not flowing between two conductors separated by an insulator?
Understand the Problem
The content discusses the principles of electric charge, focusing on charges in motion and the concept that an electric current flows only when conductors are connected by a medium that allows charge transfer. It explains why charges do not flow when the conductors are separated by an insulator, such as air.
Answer
Insulators prevent electron flow due to tightly bound electrons.
Charges do not flow between two conductors separated by an insulator because the insulator prevents the movement of electrons. Insulators have tightly bound electrons, making them resistant to electron flow, despite potential differences.
Answer for screen readers
Charges do not flow between two conductors separated by an insulator because the insulator prevents the movement of electrons. Insulators have tightly bound electrons, making them resistant to electron flow, despite potential differences.
More Information
Insulators play an important role in blocking electron flow but are crucial in preventing short circuits and protecting electronic components.
Tips
Avoid assuming that higher voltages can overcome insulating properties without breakdown.
Sources
- Conductors and Insulators - The Physics Classroom - physicsclassroom.com
- Why charge does not flow in an insulator - Quora - quora.com
- Conductors, Insulators, and Charging by Induction - OpenStax - phys.libretexts.org
