Which element has the highest electrical conductivity?

Study for the 2025 QRC Chemist Evaluation Exam. Prepare with flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and detailed explanations. Get exam-ready now!

The element with the highest electrical conductivity is silver (Ag). Silver's exceptional conductivity is due to its unique atomic structure. It has a single electron in its outermost shell, which is free to move, allowing electric current to flow easily. Furthermore, silver has a relatively low resistance to electron flow compared to other elements. This characteristic makes it the best conductor of electricity among all metals.

While aluminum (Al), copper (Cu), and gallium (Ga) are also good conductors, they do not match the level of conductivity found in silver. Copper is commonly used in electrical wiring due to its high conductivity and cost-effectiveness, but it still falls short of silver's top position in terms of electrical conduction. Gallium, although it has some conductivity, is not as effective as the others in terms of electrical performance.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy