Iron

Iron, element #26, is a metal that has been well-known since ancient times. It has an atomic mass of 55.874 amu, a specific gravity of 7.874, and electron levels of 2-8-14-2. It has valences of +3 and 2, and is obviously a member of the iron triad. Fe melts at 1534.85 degrees C, and boils at 2749.85 degrees C. Iron oxidizes very easily, and forms ferrous oxide, also known as rust. Because of this, it is often alloyed with metals such as copper and zinc. Fe is relatively abundant, with very stable nuclei. The core of the earth is thought to be largely composed of iron. The most common Fe ore is hematite, also known as ferric oxide. There are 10 isotopes of iron.

June 19, 1997

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