Ferrous facts for kids
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The word ferrous is used to describe things that contain iron. It comes from the Latin word ferrum, which means iron. You will often hear this word when people talk about metals, especially in industries that work with metals.
For example, steel is a ferrous metal because it is made mostly of iron. Other metals like aluminum or copper are called non-ferrous metals because they do not contain iron.
Contents
What Ferrous Means
When something is called ferrous, it usually means it has iron in it. This is very important in many industries:
- Metallurgy: This is the science of working with metals. Ferrous metals are a big part of this field.
- Recycling: When you recycle, ferrous metals are separated from other materials using strong magnets. This is because iron is magnetic.
- Manufacturing: Many tools, machines, and buildings are made from ferrous metals like steel because they are strong and durable.
Ferrous vs. Non-Ferrous Metals
It is helpful to know the difference between ferrous and non-ferrous metals.
- Ferrous metals contain iron. They are usually strong and can be magnetic. Examples include cast iron and steel.
- Non-ferrous metals do not contain iron. They are often lighter, more resistant to rust, and are not magnetic. Examples include aluminum, copper, brass, and bronze.
Iron's Oxidation State
Sometimes, "ferrous" can also describe iron in a specific chemical form. In chemistry, iron can exist in different "oxidation states." When iron is in its +2 oxidation state, it is called ferrous iron. For example, iron(II) oxide is also known as ferrous oxide. This is a common way chemists describe how iron atoms are bonded in a compound.
Related topics
Images for kids
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Ferrous oxide, Wüstite, FeO
See also
In Spanish: Compuesto ferroso para niños
