In the context of material properties, what does ductility refer to?

Ductility refers to the property of materials that enables them to undergo significant plastic deformation before rupture or fracture. This property is essential in applications where materials need to be shaped or drawn into wires and other forms without breaking. When a ductile material is subjected to tensile stress, it can stretch and deform over a wide range of conditions, allowing it to absorb energy and stress without failing abruptly.

In this context, the correct choice emphasizes that ductility involves the capability of a material to stretch and deform, which is key for processes like manufacturing and forming applications where materials need to be manipulated extensively. Understanding ductility is crucial for engineers to select appropriate materials for different structural and mechanical applications, ensuring safety and functionality in designs.