Red Seal Metal Fabricator (Fitter) Practice Exam

What distinguishes ferrous metals from non-ferrous metals?

1. Ferrous metals have a higher melting point

2. Ferrous metals contain iron

3. Non-ferrous metals are more expensive

4. Non-ferrous metals are used for electrical applications

The correct answer is: Ferrous metals contain iron

The distinction between ferrous and non-ferrous metals primarily lies in the presence of iron. Ferrous metals are defined specifically by their iron content, which generally constitutes a significant portion of their composition. This characteristic imparts certain properties to ferrous metals, such as susceptibility to corrosion, magnetic properties, and typically lower melting points in comparison to some non-ferrous metals. Non-ferrous metals, on the other hand, do not contain iron, which results in a different set of properties, such as greater resistance to corrosion and lighter weight. While some non-ferrous metals can be more expensive and are often used in specific applications like electrical wiring due to their conductivity, these factors do not define their classification. The key distinction that sets ferrous metals apart is indeed their iron content.