Ferrous metals are primarily distinguished from other types of metals by their iron content. They contain iron as a major component, which gives them specific properties not found in non-ferrous metals. Key characteristics of ferrous metals include magnetic properties, high strength, and durability, which make them ideal for use in construction and industrial applications like building frameworks and machinery. Additionally, ferrous metals tend to be more susceptible to corrosion due to their iron content, except for types like stainless steel which includes chromium to resist rust. Their density generally makes them heavier than non-ferrous metals, which often leads to different uses in various industries based on weight considerations.