* Conductors allow heat to flow easily through them.

* Insulators resist the flow of heat.

When you heat a pan, the heat energy travels through the metal of the pan, allowing the pan to become hot. This is because the metal atoms in the pan are able to easily transfer heat energy to each other.

Here's an example to illustrate:

* Metal pan: Heat from the stovetop travels through the metal pan and warms the food inside.

* Wooden spoon: The wooden spoon's handle feels cool because wood is a good insulator and doesn't conduct heat very well.