What does insulation do in electrical wiring?

Insulation in electrical wiring serves the critical purpose of preventing contact with conductive materials. By surrounding conductive wires with non-conductive materials, insulation ensures that electricity flows only through the intended path and minimizes the risk of short circuits, electric shocks, and fires. Essentially, insulation provides a protective barrier that keeps live wires from inadvertently touching other conductive objects or surfaces, thereby maintaining safety and efficiency in electrical systems.

While increasing electrical resistance can be a characteristic of certain insulating materials, insulation primarily functions to prevent unintended contact. Similarly, reducing energy consumption and enhancing electrical current flow are not direct roles of insulation; instead, insulation's primary role is to ensure safety by preventing electrical leaks and accidents.