What distinguishes ceramics from metals?

Conductivity is a key factor that differentiates ceramics from metals. Metals are generally good conductors of electricity and heat due to the presence of free electrons that can move easily within the material. This characteristic leads to metals being widely used in electrical wiring and thermal management applications.

In contrast, ceramics typically exhibit poor electrical conductivity, as they do not have free-moving electrons. Instead, ceramics are insulators or semiconductors, depending on their composition. This fundamental difference in conductivity plays a significant role in determining the applications and utility of these materials. Ceramics are often used in situations where insulating properties are required, such as in electrical insulators and components that need to withstand high temperatures without conducting electricity.

While other factors like weight, ductility, and hardness are important properties, conductivity serves as the primary distinction that highlights the different behaviors and uses of ceramics compared to metals.