Final answer:
Non-ferrous metal refers to metals that do not contain iron and are resistant to corrosion, unlike nonmetals, which are poor conductors and generally brittle.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term "non-ferrous metal" is used to describe metals that do not contain iron (ferrous comes from the Latin word for iron, ferrum) and are typically more resistant to corrosion and rust. Non-ferrous metals include aluminum, copper, lead, zinc, and tin, as well as precious metals like gold and silver. These materials are notable for their malleability, ductility, and are often used in applications where a lightweight or non-magnetic metal is required. Unlike non-ferrous metals, nonmetals are elements that generally have the opposite properties of metals; they are poor conductors of heat and electricity, not malleable or ductile, and tend to be brittle when in solid form.