Non-conductors, whose polarization is caused by an electric field, are known as

Non-conductors, also known as insulators, whose polarization is caused by an external electric field are specifically referred to as dielectrics [t1][t2]. In these materials, electrons are tightly bound to their nuclei and cannot move freely like in conductors [t2]. When an external electric field is applied, these bound charges undergo slight displacements: the positive nuclei and negative electron clouds are pulled in opposite directions, creating electric dipoles [t1][t6]. This process is known as polarization [t6]. While all dielectrics are insulators because they do not allow free charge flow, the term 'dielectric' is specifically used when discussing the material's ability to be polarized and store electrical energy through this displacement [t6][t8]. In contrast, semiconductors have intermediate conductivity, and superconductors have zero resistance at low temperatures [t3][t7].