What does a ferrous metal contain?

A ferrous metal is defined by its iron content. The term “ferrous” specifically refers to metals that contain iron, which is a key element that contributes to the properties and characteristics of these metals. Ferrous metals are generally known for their strength and magnetic properties, and they are primarily used in construction and manufacturing due to their durability.

In addition to iron, ferrous metals may also contain varying amounts of other elements such as carbon (in the case of steel), which can influence their hardness and other physical properties. However, the defining characteristic of ferrous metals is their iron content.

The other provided options do not accurately define ferrous metals: carbon is often an additive for steel but does not define ferrous metals, aluminum is a non-ferrous metal, and nickel can be part of certain alloys but does not indicate the presence of iron on its own. Therefore, recognizing that ferrous metals must contain iron solidifies the understanding of their classification in metallurgy.