Which of the following is an example of a conductor?

Water with small amounts of salt is an example of a conductor because the presence of salt in water increases its ability to conduct electricity. In its pure form, water is a poor conductor; however, when salt (which dissociates into ions) is dissolved, it allows electrical current to flow more easily through it. This is crucial in healthcare settings where the interaction of various materials and fluids with electrical equipment is common, leading to potential electrocution hazards.

In contrast, dry skin, plastic, and glass are considered insulators. Dry skin typically has a high resistance to electrical flow, making it less likely to conduct electricity. Plastic is used as an insulating material precisely because it does not easily allow the passage of electric current. Glass, similarly, is a poor conductor as it is designed to prevent electrical flow. Understanding the roles of conductors and insulators in an environment is essential in mitigating electrocution risks, especially in healthcare where wet conditions may be more frequent.