Leiter (elektr.) (Masculine)

Description: Electrical conductors are used in charge carrier transport to generate a flow of current in order to transport electrical energy. Unlike insulators and semi-conductors, conductors have a large number of freely moving charges. These can be electrons or ions. A distinction can be made between class 1 and class 2 conductors. Conductors in class 1 include all metals, graphite and some chemical compounds. In the case of all these conductors, the current flow is based on electron transport and does not lead to changes in the material. Silver is the best metallic conductor. However, many technical applications use copper, because it is cheaper yet still an excellent conductor. Aluminium is a tried-and-tested conductor for long overhead Power lines thanks to its low density and associated lower weight. In the case of class 2 conductors - electrolytes - ions and not electrons are used to transport current. This brings about a change in the material. Technical applications for class 2 conductors include, for example, Electroplating systems and electrolysis.