What type of material allows for partial conductivity?

The correct choice is semiconductor because this type of material has electrical conductivity that falls between that of conductors and insulators. Semiconductors are unique in that their ability to conduct electricity can be enhanced or diminished based on various factors such as temperature, light exposure, or the presence of impurities.

In a pure state, semiconductors generally do not conduct electricity as effectively as conductors, which allow for free flow of electrons. However, when conditions are right, semiconductors can conduct electricity by allowing some electrons to move freely through the material. This property makes semiconductors essential for many electronic devices, such as diodes and transistors, because they can be manipulated to control electrical signals.

Other materials have distinct characteristics: conductors allow current to flow easily due to their high density of free electrons, whereas insulators resist the flow of electric current entirely due to a lack of free electrons. Superconductors, on the other hand, exhibit zero electrical resistance under certain conditions but are not classified as having partial conductivity. Thus, semiconductors are the only materials in the options provided that allow for varying levels of conductivity.