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Why are rubber and plastic used for co...

Why are rubber and plastic used for covering the electrical switches or wires ?

A

Rubber and plastic are good conductors .

B

Rubber and plastic are insulators .

C

Rubber is a good conductor and plastic is a bad conductor .

D

Plastic is a good conductor and rubber is a bad conductor

Text Solution

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The correct Answer is:
### Step-by-Step Solution: 1. **Understanding Insulators**: Rubber and plastic are classified as insulators. Insulators are materials that do not allow electric current to flow through them easily. This property is crucial for safety in electrical applications. 2. **Purpose of Insulation**: The primary reason for using rubber and plastic to cover electrical switches and wires is to prevent electric shocks. When a person touches a live wire, if it is not insulated, they can get an electric shock. Insulation prevents this by blocking the flow of electricity. 3. **Prevention of Short-Circuits**: Insulation also helps in preventing short-circuits. A short-circuit occurs when electricity flows along an unintended path, which can lead to overheating and potential fires. By covering wires and switches with rubber or plastic, we ensure that the electrical current flows only through the intended path. 4. **Durability and Flexibility**: Rubber and plastic are not only good insulators but also durable and flexible materials. This makes them suitable for various applications in electrical wiring and switches, as they can withstand wear and tear while maintaining their insulating properties. 5. **Conclusion**: In summary, rubber and plastic are used for covering electrical switches and wires because they are effective insulators that prevent electric shocks and short-circuits, ensuring safety in electrical systems.

### Step-by-Step Solution: 1. **Understanding Insulators**: Rubber and plastic are classified as insulators. Insulators are materials that do not allow electric current to flow through them easily. This property is crucial for safety in electrical applications. 2. **Purpose of Insulation**: The primary reason for using rubber and plastic to cover electrical switches and wires is to prevent electric shocks. When a person touches a live wire, if it is not insulated, they can get an electric shock. Insulation prevents this by blocking the flow of electricity. 3. **Prevention of Short-Circuits**: Insulation also helps in preventing short-circuits. A short-circuit occurs when electricity flows along an unintended path, which can lead to overheating and potential fires. By covering wires and switches with rubber or plastic, we ensure that the electrical current flows only through the intended path. ...
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