(Chemical symbol: Fe). The most abundant of metallic elements, known and used since very early times. Pure iron, which is practically unknown in industry, is silver-white, very ductile, malleable, and magnetic. It is the basis for many important alloyed structural materials. It has a specific gravity of 7.87; atomic weight, 55.84; melting point, 1536°C (2797°F); boiling point, 3000°C (5432°F).
Iron ores occur in large deposits in many parts of the world in the form of various iron oxides. The ore is heated in a blast furnace with limestone and coke to produce molten pig iron, and with further treatment, is converted into steel.