Iron
Iron, Fe, is a silvery malleable and ductile transition metal
element, found in
Group VIII of
the periodic table.
- Atomic Number : 26
- Relative Atomic Mass : 56
- Melting Point : 1535 degC
- Boiling Point : 2750 degC
- Relative Density : 7.8
Iron, Fe, normally consists of four isotopes. Six other
isotopes are known.
Discovery
Iron was known since ancient times.
Occurrence
Iron is widely distributed in the universe, and exists in all the
planets, in meteorites and in the sun. Its principal ore is
Hematite.
Extraction
Iron is extracted by the reduction of its oxide ores with carbon.
Preparation
Manufacture
Properties
Iron in its pure state
- is highly reactive, and
- in its pure state oxidises rapidly in air.
Reactions
Iron is oxidises slowly in air.
Iron is attacked by acids to form salts with the liberation of hydrogen.
>
Fe + HCl ==> Fe2Cl3 + H2
Iron exists in two oxidation states in its compounds.
Uses
- Iron is an important component of steel alloys.
- Iron in its alloys is important in structures.
- Iron in essential for life and is an important component of
the Hemoglobin in blood.
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