Iron Ore

Iron ore is a mineral substance which, when heated in the presence of a reductant, will yield metallic iron (Fe). It almost always consists of iron oxides, the primary forms of which are magnetite (Fe₃O₄) and hematite (Fe₂O₃). Iron ore is the source of primary iron for the world's iron and steel industries.

In addition to steel, iron ore plays an important role in the creation of several products. About 98% of iron ore production goes to making steel. Tools, automobile parts, buildings, bridges and ships are a few of the many items made from steel.