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It is important for a circuit to be electrically connected in the right places (to form a closed circuit), but also NOT be connected in the wrong places (no short circuits). Therefore, most electrical systems are connected using wires. A wire is a conductor wrapped in an insulator.

The conductor on the inside forms an electrical connection, while the insulator keeps undesired objects from making an electrical connection to the circuit. A small portion of the conductor is usually exposed at the ends, so they can be connected to the rest of the circuit.