Iron is a chemical element with symbol Fe (from Latin:ferrum) and atomic number 26. It is a metal in the first transition series. It is by mass the most common element on Earth, forming much of Earth's outer and inner core.
Three reasons Iron stands out
- 1
Found in blood and used in construction.
- 2
It is the most common element in the entire Earth by mass, making up most of the planet's core.
- 3
Can be used to make strong permanent magnets.
The metal at Earth’s heart
Iron dominates Earth’s core and has shaped human technology from early blades to skyscrapers. Its ability to switch oxidation states makes it useful in enzymes, including the proteins that handle oxygen. The same chemistry also drives rust, steadily returning exposed metal to oxide minerals.