Just as there are many different types of wood, there are many different types of metal. People often use the terms “iron” and “steel” interchangeably, but they are actually two very different materials. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the key differences between iron and steel. We’ll also discuss why steel is a more popular choice for construction projects than iron.
What is Iron?
Iron is a chemical element with the symbol Fe and atomic number 26. It is a metal that belongs to the first transition series and group 8 of the periodic table. Iron is the fourth most abundant element in the Earth’s crust, and its abundance in rocks has been used as an important indicator for the began formation of our planet. The term “iron” usually refers to iron ore, which is used to produce pig iron, the main ingredient of steel. Pure iron is rare on Earth because it tends to rust quickly when it comes into contact with oxygen in the air. However, iron plays a vital role in many different industries and is an essential part of our everyday lives.
What is Steel?
Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, containing between 0.2% and 2.1% carbon by weight. The addition of carbon to iron increases the hardness and strength of the resulting material, but it also makes it more brittle. Steel is a versatile material that has been used for centuries in a wide variety of applications, from bridges and buildings to cars and appliances. Today, steel remains an important material in many industries, thanks to its unique combination of strength, durability, and malleability.
Difference between Iron and Steel
Iron is a metal that has been used by humans for centuries. It is found in both natural and alloy forms, and its properties make it useful for a wide variety of applications. Steel, on the other hand, is an alloy of iron and carbon. The addition of carbon gives the steel its unique strength and hardness, making it ideal for construction and other high-stress applications. While both iron and steel are useful metals, their different properties make them suitable for different purposes.
Conclusion
The difference between iron and steel is in the carbon levels. Steel has a higher carbon content than iron, which makes it harder and stronger. This also means that steel can be molded into different shapes more easily than iron. If you are looking for a strong material that can be shaped easily, then steel is the right choice for you. If you need something with more flexibility, then go with iron instead.
