Which metal type contains iron, is silvery-grey, prone to rust and corrosion, and is magnetic (except stainless steel)?

• A. Ferrous metal
• B. Non-ferrous metal
• C. Stainless steel
• D. Alloy

Answer: (A)

Ferrous metals are the ones that contain iron. That iron content gives them a silvery‑grey look, makes them prone to rust and corrosion in damp environments, and makes them magnetic in most cases. Stainless steel is a special case: it includes chromium and other elements that reduce rusting, and depending on the exact alloy its magnetic properties can be weaker or even non‑magnetic, but the common trait of containing iron and being attracted to magnets is what identifies ferrous metals. Non‑ferrous metals don’t contain iron and are typically non‑magnetic, and the term alloy is too broad because it could describe many compositions, not specifically iron-containing and magnetic metals.