7.87
55.845
[Ar] 3d64s2
56Fe
8
4
d
26
2, 8, 14, 2
762.466
Fe
7.87
1538°C, 2800°F, 1811 K
2861°C, 5182°F, 3134 K
approx 3500BC
7439-89-6
22368
More Information
Uses and Properties
Image Explanation
Iron is an incredible metal. It is used in every part of our lives, from food to transportation, to accommodation and everything in between.
Appearance
A shiny, greyish metal that rusts in damp air.
Uses
Iron, symbolized by the atomic number 26 and the chemical symbol Fe, is one of the most abundant and versatile elements on Earth. It has been a cornerstone of human civilization for millennia and continues to be a driving force in modern industry and technology. In this article, we delve into the multifaceted uses of iron and how it forms the backbone of our society.
Iron has been an essential material in the construction of infrastructure and buildings for thousands of years. Its durability, strength, and malleability have made it a preferred choice for everything from bridges and skyscrapers to roads and railways.
The use of iron in construction dates back to ancient civilizations, with notable examples like the Iron Pillar of Delhi in India, an iron structure that has withstood corrosion for over a thousand years. In modern construction, iron continues to play a pivotal role in reinforcing concrete structures and creating sturdy frameworks for architectural projects.
Iron's influence on transportation has been transformative. The development of the railroad system in the 19th century was a turning point in the Industrial Revolution, and iron was at the heart of this revolution. Iron rails, locomotives, and train components were instrumental in shaping the modern transportation landscape, connecting distant regions and fostering economic growth.
In the automotive industry, iron remains indispensable. From engine blocks to chassis components, iron's strength and heat resistance make it a primary material in vehicle manufacturing. Modern cars benefit from advanced iron alloys that improve fuel efficiency, safety, and performance.
The historical significance of iron extends to naval warfare. The mid-19th century witnessed the emergence of ironclad warships, a technological leap that revolutionized naval battles. Iron plating provided these vessels with unparalleled protection and durability, changing the course of maritime history.
Iron's role in shipbuilding continues to the present day, with modern ships relying on iron and steel alloys for their construction. These materials are chosen for their resistance to corrosion, which is critical for vessels exposed to saltwater.
The development of iron-based machinery and tools has been a driving force behind industrialization. Iron's ability to withstand high temperatures, mechanical stress, and wear has led to its extensive use in heavy machinery and manufacturing equipment.
From the gears and components in factories to the construction of mining equipment, iron's reliability is unmatched. It also plays a role in the production of industrial tools, ranging from wrenches and hammers to cutting and drilling equipment.
Iron is not just a building material; it's also an essential element for living organisms. In the human body, iron is a vital component of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for transporting oxygen in red blood cells. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, a condition characterized by fatigue and reduced oxygen-carrying capacity.
In the medical field, iron supplements are commonly prescribed to treat iron-deficiency anemia and other conditions where increased iron intake is necessary. The development of iron-rich foods and fortified products has also improved the health and well-being of populations around the world.
Iron's role in metallurgy is continually evolving. The creation of advanced iron alloys has paved the way for improved materials in various industries. For example, the development of stainless steel, an iron-based alloy with added chromium and nickel, has revolutionized construction, architecture, and the food industry.
Stainless steel is renowned for its corrosion resistance and hygienic properties, making it a top choice for kitchen appliances, medical instruments, and architectural elements. In the aerospace industry, iron-based alloys contribute to the development of lightweight, high-strength components for aircraft and spacecraft.
The energy sector relies on iron in multiple ways. In wind turbines, iron-based alloys are used for structural components and gears. These materials ensure the reliability and efficiency of renewable energy sources. Iron is also a key component in the production of electrical transformers and power generation equipment.
Iron has a crucial role in environmental remediation. Iron nanoparticles are used to purify water by removing contaminants and pollutants. The iron in these nanoparticles reacts with contaminants to render them harmless, making water safe for consumption and industrial use.
In agriculture, iron is used as a micronutrient in fertilizers to correct iron deficiencies in plants. Iron is essential for plant growth and plays a vital role in photosynthesis and the production of chlorophyll.
In the realm of science and technology, iron plays a fundamental role in the construction of laboratories, research equipment, and even particle accelerators. Iron shielding is used to contain radiation and ensure the safety of scientific experiments.
Magnetic materials, including iron, are central to the development of electronics and telecommunications. Iron's magnetic properties are harnessed in the creation of transformers, inductors, and magnets used in various devices and technologies.
Iron's journey through history is a testament to human ingenuity and innovation. It has built empires, connected continents, and propelled industrial progress. From the construction of ancient monuments to the development of cutting-edge technologies, iron remains the foundation upon which our modern world is built.
Its versatility, strength, and durability have secured its place as an indispensable element, shaping the past, present, and future of industry and innovation. As we continue to push the boundaries of science and technology, iron will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of our ever-advancing society.
Iron: The Backbone of Industry and Innovation
Iron, symbolized by the atomic number 26 and the chemical symbol Fe, is one of the most abundant and versatile elements on Earth. It has been a cornerstone of human civilization for millennia and continues to be a driving force in modern industry and technology. In this article, we delve into the multifaceted uses of iron and how it forms the backbone of our society.
1. Building the Foundations of Civilization
Iron has been an essential material in the construction of infrastructure and buildings for thousands of years. Its durability, strength, and malleability have made it a preferred choice for everything from bridges and skyscrapers to roads and railways.
The use of iron in construction dates back to ancient civilizations, with notable examples like the Iron Pillar of Delhi in India, an iron structure that has withstood corrosion for over a thousand years. In modern construction, iron continues to play a pivotal role in reinforcing concrete structures and creating sturdy frameworks for architectural projects.
2. Transportation Advancements
Iron's influence on transportation has been transformative. The development of the railroad system in the 19th century was a turning point in the Industrial Revolution, and iron was at the heart of this revolution. Iron rails, locomotives, and train components were instrumental in shaping the modern transportation landscape, connecting distant regions and fostering economic growth.
In the automotive industry, iron remains indispensable. From engine blocks to chassis components, iron's strength and heat resistance make it a primary material in vehicle manufacturing. Modern cars benefit from advanced iron alloys that improve fuel efficiency, safety, and performance.
3. The Ironclad Age
The historical significance of iron extends to naval warfare. The mid-19th century witnessed the emergence of ironclad warships, a technological leap that revolutionized naval battles. Iron plating provided these vessels with unparalleled protection and durability, changing the course of maritime history.
Iron's role in shipbuilding continues to the present day, with modern ships relying on iron and steel alloys for their construction. These materials are chosen for their resistance to corrosion, which is critical for vessels exposed to saltwater.
4. Industrial Machinery and Tools
The development of iron-based machinery and tools has been a driving force behind industrialization. Iron's ability to withstand high temperatures, mechanical stress, and wear has led to its extensive use in heavy machinery and manufacturing equipment.
From the gears and components in factories to the construction of mining equipment, iron's reliability is unmatched. It also plays a role in the production of industrial tools, ranging from wrenches and hammers to cutting and drilling equipment.
5. The Role of Iron in Medicine
Iron is not just a building material; it's also an essential element for living organisms. In the human body, iron is a vital component of hemoglobin, the protein responsible for transporting oxygen in red blood cells. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, a condition characterized by fatigue and reduced oxygen-carrying capacity.
In the medical field, iron supplements are commonly prescribed to treat iron-deficiency anemia and other conditions where increased iron intake is necessary. The development of iron-rich foods and fortified products has also improved the health and well-being of populations around the world.
6. Advanced Metallurgy and Alloy Development
Iron's role in metallurgy is continually evolving. The creation of advanced iron alloys has paved the way for improved materials in various industries. For example, the development of stainless steel, an iron-based alloy with added chromium and nickel, has revolutionized construction, architecture, and the food industry.
Stainless steel is renowned for its corrosion resistance and hygienic properties, making it a top choice for kitchen appliances, medical instruments, and architectural elements. In the aerospace industry, iron-based alloys contribute to the development of lightweight, high-strength components for aircraft and spacecraft.
7. Iron in Energy Production
The energy sector relies on iron in multiple ways. In wind turbines, iron-based alloys are used for structural components and gears. These materials ensure the reliability and efficiency of renewable energy sources. Iron is also a key component in the production of electrical transformers and power generation equipment.
8. Environmental Applications
Iron has a crucial role in environmental remediation. Iron nanoparticles are used to purify water by removing contaminants and pollutants. The iron in these nanoparticles reacts with contaminants to render them harmless, making water safe for consumption and industrial use.
In agriculture, iron is used as a micronutrient in fertilizers to correct iron deficiencies in plants. Iron is essential for plant growth and plays a vital role in photosynthesis and the production of chlorophyll.
9. Scientific and Technological Advancements
In the realm of science and technology, iron plays a fundamental role in the construction of laboratories, research equipment, and even particle accelerators. Iron shielding is used to contain radiation and ensure the safety of scientific experiments.
Magnetic materials, including iron, are central to the development of electronics and telecommunications. Iron's magnetic properties are harnessed in the creation of transformers, inductors, and magnets used in various devices and technologies.
Conclusion
Iron's journey through history is a testament to human ingenuity and innovation. It has built empires, connected continents, and propelled industrial progress. From the construction of ancient monuments to the development of cutting-edge technologies, iron remains the foundation upon which our modern world is built.
Its versatility, strength, and durability have secured its place as an indispensable element, shaping the past, present, and future of industry and innovation. As we continue to push the boundaries of science and technology, iron will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of our ever-advancing society.
History
Iron, symbolized by the atomic number 26 and the chemical symbol Fe, is an element that has left an indelible mark on the course of human civilization. Its rich history stretches back millennia, and its significance has evolved from humble beginnings to the pivotal role it plays in modern industry and technology. In this article, we embark on a journey through the storied history of Iron, tracing its path from the earliest uses to its contemporary importance.
Early Encounters with Iron
The history of Iron is a testament to human innovation and resourcefulness. Iron artifacts dating back over 5,000 years have been discovered in ancient Mesopotamia, proving that our ancestors had a fundamental understanding of the utility of this remarkable element. Iron's properties, including its strength and malleability, made it a valuable material for crafting tools, weapons, and everyday objects.
It was during the Iron Age, a period that began around 1200 BCE, that the use of Iron truly began to flourish. This era marked a significant shift from the previous reliance on softer metals like copper and bronze. Iron, due to its abundance and durability, rapidly transformed the landscape of technology and warfare.
Iron in Ancient Weaponry
The advent of ironworking brought about an era of technological progress. Iron weapons, such as swords, spears, and armor, offered distinct advantages in combat. The increased hardness and durability of iron weaponry gave those who wielded it an edge on the battlefield.
This technological advancement influenced the course of history, enabling the expansion of empires and the development of sophisticated military strategies. Iron weaponry played a crucial role in the rise of powerful civilizations such as the Roman Empire.
The Rise of Iron as a Building Material
Iron's utility extended beyond weaponry. The Romans recognized the value of iron in construction, using it to reinforce concrete structures and create awe-inspiring architectural marvels. The construction of aqueducts, bridges, and monumental structures like the Colosseum highlighted the versatility and strength of iron.
As societies developed, so did their ability to work with iron. Blacksmiths and metalworkers became highly skilled artisans, capable of producing intricate ironworks that ranged from decorative pieces to functional tools.
The Industrial Revolution and Iron's Transformative Role
The true transformation of the world began with the Industrial Revolution in the 18th century. Iron played a central role in this period of rapid technological advancement. The development of the steam engine, powered by coal and made with iron components, revolutionized transportation and industry.
Iron railways and locomotives reshaped transportation, allowing goods and people to be transported over long distances with unprecedented efficiency. This connectivity laid the foundation for economic growth and globalization.
The Birth of the Steel Industry
As the 19th century progressed, so did the understanding of iron's properties. The Bessemer process, developed by British inventor Henry Bessemer in the mid-19th century, marked a pivotal moment in iron and steel production. This process allowed for the large-scale production of steel by removing impurities from iron through oxidation.
Steel, a more refined and versatile form of iron, became the backbone of modern industry. It found applications in shipbuilding, machinery production, construction, and more. The development of steel alloys further expanded the range of industries that relied on iron-based materials.
Iron in the Modern World
In the 20th century, iron and steel continued to be at the forefront of technological advancements. The growth of the automotive industry saw iron's role expand further. Iron-based alloys are used in the construction of engines, chassis, and body frames. These materials contribute to the safety and performance of modern vehicles.
Iron also plays a crucial role in the field of aerospace. Steel and iron-based alloys are used in the construction of aircraft, engines, and components. Their high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to extreme temperatures make them ideal for this application.
Iron and Sustainability
While iron's historical role in industrialization has been profound, it has also raised environmental concerns. Iron production is energy-intensive and has significant carbon emissions. However, advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on sustainability have led to more efficient and eco-friendly iron production methods.
Recycling has also become a crucial part of the iron industry. Recycling scrap iron and steel reduces the need for new iron ore mining and conserves natural resources, contributing to a more sustainable future.
The history of Iron is a testament to human ingenuity and progress. From its early use in tools and weaponry to its pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution, Iron has been a driving force behind the rise of civilizations and the shaping of our modern world.
As we continue to push the boundaries of science, technology, and sustainability, Iron remains a foundational element. Its versatility, durability, and strength have ensured its enduring importance, and it continues to be at the forefront of innovation and progress in the 21st century.
Atomic Data
Atomic Radiues, Non-bonded (A): 2.04
Electron Affinity (kJ mol-1): 14.569
Covalent Radiues (A): 1.24
Electronegativity (Pauling Scale): 1.83
| Ionisation Energies (kJ mol-1) | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | 8th |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 762.466 | 1561.876 | 2957.469 | 5287.4 | 7236 | 9561.7 | 12058.74 | 14575.08 |
Oxidation States and Isotopes
Common oxidation states 1
| Isotope | Atomic Mass | Natural Abundance | Half Life | Mode of Decay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 54Fe | 53.940 | 5.845 | > 3.1 x 1022 y | EC-EC |
| 56Fe | 55.935 | 91.754 | - | - |
| 57Fe | 56.935 | 2.119 | - | - |
| 58Fe | 57.933 | 0.282 | - | - |
Supply Risk
Relative Supply Risk: 5.2
Crustal Abundance (ppm): 52157
Recycle Rate (%): >30
Production Conc.(%) : 41
Top 3 Producers:
1) China
2) Australia
3) Brazil
1) China
2) Australia
3) Brazil
Top 3 Reserve Holders:
1) Australia
2) Brazil
3) Russia
1) Australia
2) Brazil
3) Russia
Substitutability: Medium
Political Stability of Top Producer: 24.1
Political Stability of Top Reserve Holder: 74.5
Pressure and Temperature Data
Specific Heat Capacity: 449
Shear Modulus: 81.6 (soft); 60.0 (cast)
Young Modulus:
Bulk Modulus:
| Pressure 400k | Pressure 600k | Pressure 800k | Pressure 1000k | Pressure 1200k | Pressure 1400k | Pressure 1600k | Pressure 1800k | Pressure 2000k | Pressure 2200k | Pressure 2400k |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| - | - | - | 5.54 x 10-9 | 2.51 x 10-5 | 0.0104 | 0.961 | 32.7 | 36.8 | - | - |
Podcast
Transcript:
Iron is an extremely versatile metal. It has an atomic number of 26. It is a heavy metal and is important to all living organisms. Iron is an element that is important for the synthesis of a number of hormones, as well as for the formation of hemoglobin in red blood cells. Additionally, iron is required for the manufacture of a number of other proteins. This element is because to hemoglobin that oxygen may be transported all around the body. Its presence in the human body is also important for the maintenance of healthy connective tissue. Steel is another metal that is made from iron. Actually, it is often considered to be one of the most significant metals on a global scale.
The history of iron technology traces its evolution from its humble beginnings in the chalcolithic milieu. Then, it spread to other parts of the world, especially in the Mediterranean, East Asia, and the Middle East.
The best documented record of ancient iron technology comes from Cyprus. The island was a major producer of "utilitarian" iron in the eastern Mediterranean. During the 12th century, this material was marketed by Middle Eastern sailors.
This was the first recorded iron use by humans. It's possible that this element was from a meteorite. The Hittites used iron ore to make spearheads and trinkets. They also discovered how to smelt and purify it.
The development of iron technology was fairly rapid. It spread to Greece and Laos in the middle of the Bronze Age. By the end of the Roman era, this element had spread to the Mediterranean and Europe.
Iron is abundant in the Earth's crust. Additionally, it is the 10th most abundant element that can be found in the crust of the planet. The largest concentration of iron occurs in the core of the Earth, where this element is in molten form. However, it is relatively rare in the outer crust. Iron is found in nature in various forms. It is naturally present in iron-rich foods such as meats, dried fruits, and legumes. In addition, this element can be obtained from limonite and hematite. In fact, the occurrence and production of iron is a relatively important topic to scientists and geologists.
While there are no documented discoveries of iron in space, there is evidence that the inner core of the Earth is composed of iron. This core is found in all planets in the Solar System. Furthermore, it is thought that the core is where the magnetic fields that surrounds and defends the earth originates. Some estimates suggest that up to 90% of all the refined metal in the world is iron.
Iron has a number of unique properties. Some of these include the ability to magnetize, conduct electricity, and transfer heat. Other properties include strength, and malleability.
Iron has a variety of oxidation states. The most common are, ferrous iron +2 and ferric iron Fe +3. Pure iron easily switches between these oxidation states.
When heated, iron combines with oxygen to form hydrogen gas. In environments with high levels of humidity, it may rust. On the other hand, this element is capable of dissolving in water.
Iron is a metal that is magnetic in nature. This property makes iron a valuable metal. These properties make it easy to separate it from non-ferrous materials. Iron is readily dissolved in water as well as in acids of low concentration. In addition to this, its mechanical characteristics are quite excellent, and it is very affordable. A large number of coordination compounds are made from it. Other properties of iron include its low melting point, malleability, and its ability to conduct heat. Iron is also a very ductile metal, meaning that it can be stretched and hammered into various shapes without breaking. This element exhibits a number of the same characteristics as the other transitional metals. As a member of the first transition metal series, iron has many properties that make it highly useful. Some of these properties include the ability to form compounds in a wide range of oxidation states. For example, in the reaction between iron and oxygen, iron oxides are formed that range from brown to black in color. Iron is also very cheap and easy to work with. Currently, there is a lot of research and development being done to take advantage of the properties of iron. There are four main polymorphs of iron oxides and iron sulfides. We have ferric oxide; it is a brown or reddish oxide of iron and contains two atoms of iron, linked to three atoms of oxygen. This substance is the main source of iron for the steel industry. The second is notoriously named Black Iron Oxide Powder, and is used as a colorant for a wide range of non-ceramic products. Some iron oxide pigments are widely used in the cosmetic field. They are considered to be nontoxic, moisture resistant, and nonbleeding. The third is named Greigite, which is a diagenetic mineral found in anaerobic sedimentary environments where organic matter has been consumed by sulfate-reducing bacteria in the absence of oxygen. And, the fourth one is named Pyrrhotite. It is one of the rare magnetic minerals, attractable to the magnet, the intensity of magnetism being inversely proportional to the iron concentration. Each of these derivatives of Iron has different properties, and they are also affected by impurities.
Iron has many historical and contemporary applications. From being a part of jewelry to becoming a staple in the manufacturing process of many other products, iron has become an important element in our lives. This element has a broad variety of applications, including steelmaking. Moreover, Iron plays a vital role in architectural design. It is used in a variety of industrial applications.
Iron is used to produce other alloys, such as wrought iron and steel. These alloys are characterized by low cost and good mechanical properties. They are available in foil form, and in stainless steel. These alloys have also proven useful in research. It can be used for a number of purposes, including in engineering and construction. This element is widely used to make steel, girders, and even automobiles. It's also found in numerous decorative and functional goods like jewelry and silverware. In addition to these applications, iron is used in building construction, transportation, and electronics. Iron, is a metal utilized for 1000s of years, has been a staple in contemporary civilizations. It was used for weapons of war and farming implements. Historians estimate that the use of iron has been around for at least five thousand years.
Iron is an extremely versatile metal. It has an atomic number of 26. It is a heavy metal and is important to all living organisms. Iron is an element that is important for the synthesis of a number of hormones, as well as for the formation of hemoglobin in red blood cells. Additionally, iron is required for the manufacture of a number of other proteins. This element is because to hemoglobin that oxygen may be transported all around the body. Its presence in the human body is also important for the maintenance of healthy connective tissue. Steel is another metal that is made from iron. Actually, it is often considered to be one of the most significant metals on a global scale.
The history of iron technology traces its evolution from its humble beginnings in the chalcolithic milieu. Then, it spread to other parts of the world, especially in the Mediterranean, East Asia, and the Middle East.
The best documented record of ancient iron technology comes from Cyprus. The island was a major producer of "utilitarian" iron in the eastern Mediterranean. During the 12th century, this material was marketed by Middle Eastern sailors.
This was the first recorded iron use by humans. It's possible that this element was from a meteorite. The Hittites used iron ore to make spearheads and trinkets. They also discovered how to smelt and purify it.
The development of iron technology was fairly rapid. It spread to Greece and Laos in the middle of the Bronze Age. By the end of the Roman era, this element had spread to the Mediterranean and Europe.
Iron is abundant in the Earth's crust. Additionally, it is the 10th most abundant element that can be found in the crust of the planet. The largest concentration of iron occurs in the core of the Earth, where this element is in molten form. However, it is relatively rare in the outer crust. Iron is found in nature in various forms. It is naturally present in iron-rich foods such as meats, dried fruits, and legumes. In addition, this element can be obtained from limonite and hematite. In fact, the occurrence and production of iron is a relatively important topic to scientists and geologists.
While there are no documented discoveries of iron in space, there is evidence that the inner core of the Earth is composed of iron. This core is found in all planets in the Solar System. Furthermore, it is thought that the core is where the magnetic fields that surrounds and defends the earth originates. Some estimates suggest that up to 90% of all the refined metal in the world is iron.
Iron has a number of unique properties. Some of these include the ability to magnetize, conduct electricity, and transfer heat. Other properties include strength, and malleability.
Iron has a variety of oxidation states. The most common are, ferrous iron +2 and ferric iron Fe +3. Pure iron easily switches between these oxidation states.
When heated, iron combines with oxygen to form hydrogen gas. In environments with high levels of humidity, it may rust. On the other hand, this element is capable of dissolving in water.
Iron is a metal that is magnetic in nature. This property makes iron a valuable metal. These properties make it easy to separate it from non-ferrous materials. Iron is readily dissolved in water as well as in acids of low concentration. In addition to this, its mechanical characteristics are quite excellent, and it is very affordable. A large number of coordination compounds are made from it. Other properties of iron include its low melting point, malleability, and its ability to conduct heat. Iron is also a very ductile metal, meaning that it can be stretched and hammered into various shapes without breaking. This element exhibits a number of the same characteristics as the other transitional metals. As a member of the first transition metal series, iron has many properties that make it highly useful. Some of these properties include the ability to form compounds in a wide range of oxidation states. For example, in the reaction between iron and oxygen, iron oxides are formed that range from brown to black in color. Iron is also very cheap and easy to work with. Currently, there is a lot of research and development being done to take advantage of the properties of iron. There are four main polymorphs of iron oxides and iron sulfides. We have ferric oxide; it is a brown or reddish oxide of iron and contains two atoms of iron, linked to three atoms of oxygen. This substance is the main source of iron for the steel industry. The second is notoriously named Black Iron Oxide Powder, and is used as a colorant for a wide range of non-ceramic products. Some iron oxide pigments are widely used in the cosmetic field. They are considered to be nontoxic, moisture resistant, and nonbleeding. The third is named Greigite, which is a diagenetic mineral found in anaerobic sedimentary environments where organic matter has been consumed by sulfate-reducing bacteria in the absence of oxygen. And, the fourth one is named Pyrrhotite. It is one of the rare magnetic minerals, attractable to the magnet, the intensity of magnetism being inversely proportional to the iron concentration. Each of these derivatives of Iron has different properties, and they are also affected by impurities.
Iron has many historical and contemporary applications. From being a part of jewelry to becoming a staple in the manufacturing process of many other products, iron has become an important element in our lives. This element has a broad variety of applications, including steelmaking. Moreover, Iron plays a vital role in architectural design. It is used in a variety of industrial applications.
Iron is used to produce other alloys, such as wrought iron and steel. These alloys are characterized by low cost and good mechanical properties. They are available in foil form, and in stainless steel. These alloys have also proven useful in research. It can be used for a number of purposes, including in engineering and construction. This element is widely used to make steel, girders, and even automobiles. It's also found in numerous decorative and functional goods like jewelry and silverware. In addition to these applications, iron is used in building construction, transportation, and electronics. Iron, is a metal utilized for 1000s of years, has been a staple in contemporary civilizations. It was used for weapons of war and farming implements. Historians estimate that the use of iron has been around for at least five thousand years.
References
- W. M. Haynes, ed., CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, CRC Press/Taylor and Francis, Boca Raton, FL, 95th Edition, Internet Version 2015, accessed December 2014.
- Tables of Physical & Chemical Constants, Kaye & Laby Online, 16th edition, 1995. Version 1.0 (2005), accessed December 2014.
- J. S. Coursey, D. J. Schwab, J. J. Tsai, and R. A. Dragoset, Atomic Weights and Isotopic Compositions (version 4.1), 2015, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, accessed November 2016.
- T. L. Cottrell, The Strengths of Chemical Bonds, Butterworth, London, 1954.
- John Emsley, Nature’s Building Blocks: An A-Z Guide to the Elements, Oxford University Press, New York, 2nd Edition, 2011.
- Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility - Office of Science Education, It’s Elemental - The Periodic Table of Elements, accessed December 2014.
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