Silver is the most conductive element, in terms of electrical conductivity. Carbon in the form of diamond is the best thermal conductor (silver is the best metal). After silver, copper is the next best conductor, followed by gold. In general, metals are the best thermal and electrical conductors.

The reason silver is the best electrical conductor is because its electrons are freer to move than those of other elements. This has to do with silver’s crystal structure and electron configuration. Although silver is the best electrical conductor, it readily tarnishes and loses conductivity, plus it is more expensive than copper. Gold is used when corrosion resistance is important.

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