The nonconductive covering around a wire is the conductor.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Insulation
• D. Sheathing

Answer: (A)

In electrical wiring, the metal inside the wire is the conductor—the material that carries current. The nonconductive covering around it serves as insulation to keep the current from escaping and to protect people from shock. Because the covering is not the part that conducts electricity, the statement is false. If you were asked to name the covering, insulation is the correct term (with outer layers sometimes called sheathing or a jacket).