What defines a ferrous metal in utility systems?

A ferrous metal is defined specifically by its iron content. These metals contain a significant amount of iron, which is a fundamental characteristic of ferrous metals. The presence of iron imparts several desirable properties, such as high strength and durability, making them widely used in utility systems and structural applications.

Additionally, the strength of ferrous metals allows them to be utilized in the construction of various components, such as pipes and supports, where mechanical integrity is crucial. Furthermore, ferrous metals generally have magnetic properties due to their iron content, which can be beneficial in certain applications.

The other choices provide characteristics that don't align with the definition of ferrous metals. For instance, while corrosion resistance is an important property, not all ferrous metals exhibit it; in fact, they can be prone to corrosion unless properly treated. Similarly, lightweight and durability could describe non-ferrous metals or other materials, but they do not specifically define ferrous metals. Lastly, non-metallic materials do not fit into the category of metals at all, making them irrelevant to the definition of ferrous metals.