What effect does temperature generally have on resistance in conductors?

The correct understanding of the relationship between temperature and resistance in conductors is that resistance generally increases with temperature. This phenomenon occurs because, as the temperature of a conductor rises, the atoms within the material vibrate more vigorously. These vibrations create more frequent collisions between the flowing electrons and the atoms of the conductor, which impedes the flow of electricity.

Consequently, as the temperature increases, the ability of the conductor to allow electric current to pass through it diminishes, resulting in higher resistance. This behavior is particularly notable in metallic conductors such as copper and aluminum, which are widely used in electrical applications.

In summary, the increasing atomic motion at elevated temperatures leads to greater resistance in conductive materials, validating that the effect of temperature on resistance is to increase it.