What substances are needed to make iron?

Answer 1

Iron occurs in nature with some impurities like carbon, Sulpher, phosphorous, manganese etc. Each of these has its special effect on the final properties of the iron alloy. Therefore we actually make iron carbon alloy with controlled ratios of carbon. Carbon gives the iron some softness and elasticity and reduces its hardness. Some additives are intentionally added to the alloy to gain some needed properties. Various elements such as manganese, chromium, vanadium and tungsten are added, that affect qualities such as hardness, malleability and strength. The main component is Carbon, with content from 0.2 - 2.5% in most cases, depending on the grade.

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The processing removes the impurities then adds the carbon and any alloying metals in very carefully-controlled conditions. Carbon does not soften the iron, but at slightly higher proportions, it allows the steel to be hardened and tempered. Add too much carbon to iron though, and it does not give steel, but crystallises as graphite between the iron crystals to give the material called Cast Iron, with very different properties, including much lower melting-point and melt viscosity, to steel.

Answer 2

Iron is an element, one of basic "building blocks" of all matter. It is found naturally in many places of the earth. Iron is a basic building material, the main component of steel. In ion form it is an essential part of red blood cells that are necessary for carrying oxygen from the lungs to all the cells of the body.

Answer 3

Iron is typically made from iron ore, coke (a form of coal), and limestone. These materials are combined in a blast furnace and heated to high temperatures to extract the iron. Additionally, carbon is used as a reducing agent to remove oxygen from the iron ore.

Answer 4

It is an element.

A metal to be specific.

Answer 5

Iron ore, Coal, Limestone, Dolomite, and Clay.

Answer 6

Carbon, the different sizes of ions/atoms make steel less malleable hence harder and stronger