Why Do Electrical Wires Get Hot?
They really shouldn't. The first question is whether or not the wire is the proper size for the amount of current (amps) being carried. The circuit breaker determines the wire size. In general you need 14 gauge for 15 amp breaker, 12 ga. For 20 amp breaker, 10 ga. For 30 amp. Breaker etc. Wire capacity can vary with wire types, locations, whether in conduit etc. Check code requirements. If you don't have references to check requirements, call a licensed electrician. Electrical fires can result from wires that get hot.
To partially answer your original question: A conductor of electricity is a good conductor if it has a tendency to give up its electrons easily. When you exceed the capacity of the conductor there are not enough electrons available to meet the demand for electrons. This stress on the conductor creates heat and the greater the demand, the greater the heat. When the temp. Gets up to the melting point of the insulation and the insulation burns (in just about any location) a fire will develop. The breaker will continue to deliver power because it thinks we humans had sense enough to use the right size wire for the breaker.
To partially answer your original question: A conductor of electricity is a good conductor if it has a tendency to give up its electrons easily. When you exceed the capacity of the conductor there are not enough electrons available to meet the demand for electrons. This stress on the conductor creates heat and the greater the demand, the greater the heat. When the temp. Gets up to the melting point of the insulation and the insulation burns (in just about any location) a fire will develop. The breaker will continue to deliver power because it thinks we humans had sense enough to use the right size wire for the breaker.