Iron is the fourth most abundant element, by mass, in the Earth’s crust. The core of the Earth is thought to be largely composed of iron with nickel and sulfur. The most common iron-containing ore is haematite, but iron is found widely distributed in other minerals such as magnetite and taconite.
Properties:
A lustrous, ductile, malleable, silver-gray metal.
Good conductor of heat and electricity.
Reacts readily with oxygen, causing rust.
Exists in four distinct crystalline forms.
Uses:
Primary component of steel, an alloy of iron and carbon.
Used in various applications, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation.
Essential for human health, as it is a component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood.
