Which of the following materials is commonly used for laying drainage pipes?

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is the most commonly used material for laying drainage pipes due to its favorable characteristics. It is lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and has a smooth interior surface that helps reduce flow resistance, resulting in efficient water drainage. PVC pipes are also durable and can withstand various environmental conditions, making them suitable for both residential and commercial drainage applications.

In contrast, materials like copper and iron may be used in plumbing systems, but they are not typically chosen for drainage pipes due to issues such as corrosion in the case of iron and higher costs associated with copper. Lead, while it was once common in plumbing, is now avoided due to health concerns associated with lead exposure.