| Formula / Notation | Fe |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 7439-89-6 |
| Molecular Weight | 55.85 |
| Melting Point | 1538.0 |
| Boiling Point | 2861.0 |
| Density | 7.87 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | Lustrous, silver-grey metal; rusts to reddish-brown |
| Also Known As | Fe, ferrum, iron metal |
| Category | Elements |
What is Iron?
Iron is a lustrous, silver-grey transition metal, atomic number 26. The most used metal in the world - primarily as steel. Fourth most abundant element in Earth crust. Essential for life as core of haemoglobin, myoglobin, and many enzymes. Earth core is primarily iron and nickel.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: Iron
Other Names / Synonyms: Fe, ferrum, iron metal
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 1538.0 |
| Boiling Point | 2861.0 |
| Density | 7.87 |
| Molecular Weight | 55.85 |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water |
| Appearance | Lustrous, silver-grey metal; rusts to reddish-brown |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Iron is a lustrous, silver-grey transition metal, atomic number 26. The most used metal in the world - primarily as steel. Fourth most abundant element in Earth crust. Essential for life as core of haemoglobin, myoglobin, and many enzymes. Earth core is primarily iron and nickel.
Steel production (by far largest use). Cast iron for engine blocks, cookware. Iron compounds in medicine (anaemia treatment). Magnets (iron-based permanent magnets). Catalysts (Haber process uses Fe catalyst). Pigments (iron oxides - red, yellow, black).
Iron powder/dust: combustible, fire risk. Iron (II) and (III) compounds: irritants, moderate toxicity by ingestion. Iron overload disease (haemochromatosis). Iron pentacarbonyl (Fe(CO)5): highly toxic liquid. Rust (Fe2O3) not acutely toxic. Welding fumes: irritant and potential carcinogen.
The formula or notation for Iron is: Fe