periodic table element

Word Origin & Etymology

The word 'iron' comes from the Old English 'īren', which itself comes from Proto-Germanic 'isarno'. This ultimately derives from the Proto-Indo-European root *h₁ésh₂r̥ ('blood'). Iron has been used by humans since ancient times, with evidence of iron artifacts dating back to around 4000 BCE.

Interesting Facts

• Iron is the most abundant element on Earth by mass, making up much of the planet's core and a significant portion of its mantle and crust.
• The use of iron in tools and weapons played a crucial role in human history, marking the beginning of the Iron Age and revolutionizing warfare and agriculture.
• Iron is essential for many living organisms, including humans, as it is a key component of hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues.