Which type of material does not allow heat or electrons to move through it easily?

The correct answer is an insulator, which is a type of material specifically designed to resist the flow of heat and electricity. Insulators are characterized by their inability to transfer energy efficiently, making them essential in a variety of applications where preventing heat loss or avoiding electrical current is crucial. Common examples include rubber, glass, and certain plastics, all of which act to minimize energy transfer.

In contrast, conductive materials easily allow heat and electrical currents to flow, making them suitable for wiring and thermal applications. Superconductors, while also capable of conducting electricity, do so without any resistance when cooled to a certain temperature, which significantly differs from traditional insulation properties. Semiconductors can conduct electricity under specific conditions but are not as efficient in this regard compared to conductors. The defining feature of insulators is their effectiveness in restricting the movement of both heat and electrons, which underpins their role in thermoregulation and electrical safety.