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Definition of the Iron Element
A heavy malleable ductile magnetic silver-white metallic
element that readily rusts in moist air, occurs native in
meteorites and combined in most igneous rocks, is the most used of
metals, and is vital to biological processes as in transport of
oxygen in the body.
Origin / Meaning of the name Iron
The name originates from
from the Latin word ferrum meaning iron. Its symbol
'Fe' is an abbreviation of ferrum.
Classification of the Iron Element
Iron is classified
as a "Transition Metal" which are located in Groups 3 - 12 of the
Periodic Table. An Element classified as a Transition Metals is
ductile, malleable, and able to conduct electricity and heat.
Facts about the History
and the
Discovery
of the Iron
Element
Iron was believed to have
been first discovered by the Egyptians in 4000 BC. The widespread
use of this element lead to the period in World History called the
Iron Age.
Occurrence the Iron Element
Obtained from iron ores
Tenth most abundant element in the universe
Pig iron has 4% – 5% carbon
Cast iron contains 2% – 3.5% carbon and small amounts of manganese
Carbon steel contains between 0.5% and 1.5% carbon, with small
amounts of manganese, phosphorus, sulfur and silicon.
Associated Uses of Iron
Production of steel - the best known alloy of iron
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