Iron

 Iron is one of the most important transition element.

 Its atomic number is 26.
 Iron is represented by the symbol Fe.
 It is a metal in the first transition series.
 It is a shiny, greyish metal that rusts in damp air.
 Iron has become an important architectural building component.

Uses
 it is used in the manufacture of steel .There are many different types of steel with different
properties and uses. Examples are High-Carbon Steel, Mild Steel. Medium Carbon Steel,
Stainless Steel, High Speed Steel, Cobalt Steel. nickel Chromium Steel, Aluminum Steel
etc..
 Alloy steels have huge variety of applications including bridges, electricity pylons, bicycle
chains, cutting tools and rifle barrels.
 Stainless steel is very resistant to corrosion. It contains at least 10.5% chromium. Other metals
such as nickel, molybdenum, titanium and copper are added to enhance its strength and
workability. It is used in architecture, bearings, cutlery, surgical instruments and jewellery.
 Cast iron contains 3–5% carbon. It is used for pipes, valves and pumps. It is cheaper.
 Magnets can be made of iron and its alloys and compounds.
 Iron catalysts are used in the Haber process for producing ammonia, and in the Fischer–
Tropsch process for converting syngas (hydrogen and carbon monoxide) into liquid fuel.
 Iron also plays an important role in human body .The average human contains about 4
grams of iron. A lot of this is in haemoglobin, in the blood. Haemoglobin carries oxygen from our
lungs to the cells, where it is needed for tissue respiration. Humans need 10–18 milligrams of
iron each day. A lack of iron will cause anaemia to develop. Foods such as liver, kidney,
molasses, brewer’s yeast, cocoa and liquorice contain a lot of iron.