What does ductility in metals refer to?

Ductility in metals specifically refers to the ability of a metal to be stretched or deformed without breaking. This characteristic is crucial in various applications, especially in manufacturing and construction, where materials need to be reshaped into wires or other forms. Ductile metals can undergo significant plastic deformation before failure, making them suitable for processes such as drawing, rolling, and bending.

While the other options involve properties related to metals, they do not accurately describe ductility. For example, the resistance to compression is related to compressive strength, conductivity pertains to electrical properties, and the ability to reflect light relates to surface characteristics and finish. Understanding ductility allows welders and engineers to select appropriate materials for structures and applications that require flexibility and adaptability.