Conductors and Insulators

Here is an introductory video on conductors and insulators (8:34).

Now, watch this video of a demonstration of a thermal tile from the space shuttle. Note that the tour guide makes several mistakes. He refers to a "9 pound material", but the cube he picks up does not appear to weigh 9 pounds. I think that he means 9-pounds-per-cubic-foot material, as NASA states the density of the tiles can range from 9 to 22 pounds per cubic foot.


  1. Is the thermal tile a good conductor of heat? Why or why not?
  2. Do you think the thermal tile would be a good conductor of electricity? Why or why not?

For the next activity, predict whether or not each of the following materials conducts electricity.

  • Copper
  • Plastic
  • Aluminum
  • Wood
  • Plastic marker
  • Pure water
  • Salt water
  • Screwdriver (metal driver part to plastic handle)
  • Pickle
  • Celery
  • Apple

Now watch the video and answer the questions below.

  1. Did any of the results surprise you? Why or why not?
  2. Do you have any safety concerns about the experimental setup?
Last modified: Wednesday, 25 November 2020, 12:00 AM