Define the term ductility in relation to the properties of metals. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question d - 2010

Ductility is a physical property of a metal that refers to its ability to be stretched or elongated without breaking when subjected to tensile stress.

In simpler terms, a metal is considered ductile if it can be drawn into wires or undergo considerable deformation, such as bending or twisting, under tensile forces. Ductility is a critical property in determining the usability of materials in manufacturing processes, where metals are often required to maintain structural integrity while being shaped or extended.