What is the term for metals that contain no iron?

The term for metals that contain no iron is non-ferrous metals. Non-ferrous metals are distinguished from ferrous metals, which do contain iron. This distinction is crucial because non-ferrous metals often possess desirable properties that make them suitable for various applications, such as resistance to corrosion, lower density, and better electrical conductivity. Common examples of non-ferrous metals include aluminum, copper, lead, nickel, and zinc. These metals are particularly important in industries where weight and durability are critical, such as aerospace and electrical engineering.

In contrast, alloys refer to mixtures of two or more metals, which may or may not include iron, and precious metals are those valued for their rarity and are typically not used for structural applications, such as gold and silver. Ferrous metals, being those that contain iron, do not fit the description of metals that contain no iron. Thus, non-ferrous metals is the correct designation for this category.