Question

examples of an insulator, a conductor, a semiconductor are respectively?

Answer 1

Before giving their examples let me explain some theory:

Conductivity is caused by behaviour of electrons that have unique quantum state can be seen in fluid and gas. Conduction electrons are shown in conduction band or molecules that can carry a positive charge. Few metals are different from others and helps to keep the positive lattice in thermally steady state. These elements are very rare. Gold conducts better than copper and copper conducts better than aluminium. In conductors the energy to create the condction band is called band gap.

Semi conductors have larger band gap compared to conductors, therefore not many electrons can jump.In semi conductors they create holes to create flow of electrons that travel in opposite direction.

In insulators the band gap too large so electrons rarely able to jump. such is the case when the outer electrons of atoms are already involved in strong directional bonds to other atoms.

Some common conductors are copper, aluminum, gold, and silver.

Some common insulators are glass, air, plastic, rubber, and wood.

Elemental semiconductors include antimony, arsenic, boron, carbon, germanium, selenium, silicon, sulfur, and tellurium.

Common semiconductor compounds include gallium arsenide, indium antimonide, and the oxides of most metals.

There are no real perfect conductors.