What ability does ductility refer to in metals?

Ductility refers to the ability of a metal to be drawn or stretched into a wire or other forms without breaking. This property is crucial in metalworking and manufacturing processes, as it allows materials to be formed and shaped through processes like drawing or rolling without fracturing. Ductile metals can deform plastically when subjected to tensile stress, which makes them ideal for applications where they need to be molded or shaped in various ways.

In contrast, while the ability to conduct electricity is related to metallic properties, it does not define ductility. Resistance to corrosion is concerned with a material's ability to withstand chemical degradation, and capacity to withstand high temperatures relates to thermal properties. None of these alternatives reflect the ability to be stretched or deformed, which is the essence of ductility.