What does the term "insulator" refer to in physical science?

The term "insulator" in physical science refers to a material that hinders or restricts the transfer of heat. Insulators are characterized by their ability to slow down the movement of heat energy, which is crucial in various applications, especially in construction and manufacturing. For example, materials like rubber, glass wool, and certain plastics are considered good insulators because they reduce heat flow. This property makes insulators essential in creating energy-efficient buildings and appliances, as they help maintain temperature by preventing the unwanted loss or gain of heat.

The other answers focus on different properties of materials that do not apply to the specific characteristics of insulators. Conductors are the opposite of insulators, as they allow electricity to flow easily. The choice regarding speeding up chemical reactions refers to catalysts, which facilitate reactions rather than insulating properties. Lastly, while some materials can absorb sound, which relates to soundproofing and acoustics, this property does not align with the definition and function of insulators in the context of heat and electrical transfer.