What is the characteristic behavior of insulators regarding electron movement?

Insulators are materials that do not allow electrons to move freely through them. This characteristic behavior stems from the structure of insulators, which have tightly bound electrons that do not easily transfer to neighboring atoms. When an electric field is applied, the electrons remain largely fixed in place, inhibiting the flow of electric current.

This means that insulators are used to prevent unwanted flow of electricity in a circuit, ensuring that electric currents proceed only along designated pathways, such as through conductors. While some materials may partially permit electron movement (the term "semi-insulators" or semiconductors may apply), insulators are generally defined by their strong resistance to the flow of electricity.