The purest form of iron is wrought iron.
Understanding Iron Purity
Iron, symbolized as Fe (from the Latin word ferrum), is a chemical element with atomic number 26. However, in practical applications, iron is rarely found in its absolutely pure form. Instead, it's typically alloyed with other elements, most commonly carbon. The amount of carbon present significantly impacts the properties of the iron.
Wrought Iron: A High Purity Example
As stated in the reference, wrought iron is considered the purest type of iron because it contains a relatively low carbon content, typically between 0.12 and 0.25 percent. This low carbon percentage gives wrought iron its unique characteristics:
- Malleability: It can be easily shaped and formed.
- Ductility: It can be drawn into wires.
- Corrosion Resistance: Exhibits good resistance to corrosion compared to other types of iron.
Comparison of Iron Types
To better understand the purity of wrought iron, let's compare it with other common types of iron:
| Type of Iron | Carbon Content (%) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Wrought Iron | 0.12 - 0.25 | Malleable, ductile, corrosion resistant |
| Cast Iron | 2 - 4 | Brittle, hard, good compressive strength |
| Steel | 0.002 - 2.14 | Strong, versatile (properties vary with carbon content) |
Why Purity Matters
The purity of iron, specifically the carbon content, drastically affects its properties and applications. Higher carbon content generally makes the iron harder and more brittle, as seen in cast iron. Lower carbon content, as in wrought iron, results in a more malleable and ductile material. The properties of steel can be "tuned" by controlling its carbon content.
