What is the Difference Between Insulator and Dielectric?

The main difference between insulators and dielectrics lies in their properties and applications. Here are the key differences:

1. Definition: A dielectric material can develop an electric field with minimal loss of energy, while an insulator is a substance with low conductivity that obstructs the flow of current.
2. Polarization: Dielectric materials become polarized in the presence of an electric field, whereas insulators do not get polarized.
3. Bonding: The molecules of dielectric materials are weakly bonded, while those of insulators are covalently bonded.
4. Charge Storage: Dielectric materials store electric charges, while insulators block the flow of electric charges.
5. Examples: Examples of dielectrics include dry air, vacuum, and distilled water, while examples of insulators include cotton, plastic, and rubber.
6. Applications: Dielectrics are commonly used in capacitors, while insulators are used in high voltage systems and conducting wires.

In summary, both dielectrics and insulators do not conduct electricity, but dielectrics have additional properties such as polarization and charge storage that make them suitable for use in capacitors and other electronic applications.

Comparative Table: Insulator vs Dielectric

Here is a table comparing the differences between insulators and dielectrics:

Dielectrics are materials that can develop an electric field with minimal loss of energy, while insulators are substances that have low conductivity and obstruct the flow of current. The main distinction between the two is their ability to conduct electrical current, with dielectrics having high but not infinite resistivity, meaning they can partially conduct electricity.