Aluminum is a lightweight, silvery-white metal that is the most abundant metal in the Earth's crust. It is known for its low density, making it one-third the weight of steel. It is highly malleable, ductile, and has excellent corrosion resistance due to the formation of a protective oxide layer. Unlike many other metals, aluminum is not magnetic and has good thermal conductivity. It is also non-toxic and can be recycled easily. These properties make aluminum distinct from other metals such as iron, copper, and lead, which have different densities, melting points, and chemical reactivities.