Steel wire has __________ to ___________ of the conductivity of copper.

Steel wire has 10-15% of the conductivity of copper. This level of conductivity reflects the inherent electrical properties of both materials, where copper is considered an excellent conductor due to its high electron mobility and low resistivity. Steel, on the other hand, is a ferrous metal that contains iron, and although it has some conductive properties, it is significantly less conductive compared to copper.

Understanding the conductivity percentages is crucial in applications such as electrical wiring, where choosing the right material affects overall efficiency. Steel might be used in specific situations where strength or mechanical properties are prioritized over electrical conductivity. Such knowledge helps in practical scenarios where linemen might need to make decisions on material selections based on the trade-off between strength and conductivity.