ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

semiconductors

Semiconductors are special materials that are used to make tiny things called transistors, which are like little switches. The switches can be turned on and off to make electricity flow in different ways. Normally, electricity can only move in straight lines, like a railroad track. But with the help of transistors and semiconductors, electricity can be made to move around in different shapes so it can work in computers, phones, and other devices.