How does high heat affect a conductor's insulation?

High heat can significantly affect a conductor's insulation by causing it to deteriorate over time. Insulation materials are typically designed to withstand certain temperature ranges; when these limits are exceeded, the properties of the material can change. For example, excessive heat can cause the insulation to become brittle, lose its flexibility, and even melt or char. This deterioration can lead to a breakdown of the insulation's effectiveness, increasing the risk of electrical shorts, faults, or complete failure of the conductor.

The option indicating that it improves performance is misleading, as high temperatures generally compromise insulation integrity rather than enhance it. Suggesting that high heat has no effect ignores the physical and chemical changes that occur within insulation materials due to thermal stress. The notion that high heat could extend the lifespan of insulation contradicts the fundamental principles of material science, as prolonged exposure to excessive heat typically accelerates wear and degradation, ultimately reducing the lifespan of both the insulation and the conductor.