What is a characteristic of steel due to its ductile nature?

Steel is known for its ductile nature, which means it has the ability to deform and stretch under tensile stress without breaking. This ductility allows steel to flex when subjected to force, effectively absorbing energy and reducing the risk of sudden failure. Unlike brittle materials that break or shatter under stress, ductile materials like steel can bend and reshape, which is advantageous in construction and manufacturing applications where flexibility and resilience are needed.

The option referring to shattering is inconsistent with the properties of ductility, as ductile materials resist breaking easily. Rapid corrosion is a separate concern related to material treatment and environmental exposure, not ductility. While steel can conduct electricity, this characteristic is not directly linked to its ductility but rather to its metallic nature. Therefore, the choice that emphasizes the ability of steel to flex under force accurately reflects its ductile characteristics.