Which of the following metals is classified as non-ferrous?

Copper is classified as a non-ferrous metal because it does not contain iron in its composition. Non-ferrous metals are those that do not rust and are generally more resistant to corrosion compared to ferrous metals, which contain iron. Copper is known for its excellent electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and resistance to corrosion, making it highly valuable in various applications, including electrical wiring and plumbing.

Iron and steel, on the other hand, are classified as ferrous metals because they contain iron. Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, and both materials are susceptible to rust when exposed to moisture and oxygen. Zinc, while not ferrous, is often thought of in conjunction with ferrous materials due to its common use as a protective coating for iron and steel through a process called galvanization, but it is not the main example of a non-ferrous metal compared to copper. Therefore, copper is the definitive non-ferrous metal in this context.