Which type of conductor generally has more resistance due to its makeup?

The choice of stranded conductor as having more resistance is based on the physical structure and material characteristics of each conductor type. Stranded conductors are composed of multiple smaller wires twisted together to create a single conductor. This construction, while beneficial for flexibility and ease of installation, can lead to increased resistance because it has a larger surface area relative to its overall volume, which can increase the effect of skin effect at higher frequencies.

In contrast, solid conductors are made up of a single piece of metal, which typically allows for better conductivity overall. They have fewer interfaces (where the strands meet) that could contribute to resistance. The compact nature of solid conductors not only reduces resistance but also minimizes the issues related to the skin effect, making them advantageous for many applications where consistent and reliable conductivity is needed.

Understanding these material properties helps clarify why stranded conductors might exhibit higher resistance compared to solid conductors, especially in specific contexts like high-frequency applications. This highlights the importance of considering conductor type in relation to performance requirements within electrical systems.