Copper is used in electrical wiring and electrical motors because _________.

• A. It is a good conductor
• B. It is inexpensive
• C. It resists corrosion in all environments
• D. It is magnetic

Answer: (A)

Electric circuits rely on materials that allow electric charges to move with minimal resistance. Copper has very high electrical conductivity, so current flows through it with little energy lost as heat. That efficiency makes copper ideal for wiring and motor windings, where keeping power losses low is crucial. Its malleability also helps in drawing long, thin wires and winding coils. While copper is reasonably priced and resists corrosion in many situations, those properties don’t define its use as strongly as its exceptional conductivity. It isn’t magnetic, so magnetism isn’t a factor in its role in electrical systems.