How is Iron Refined from Ore?
Iron ore is any rock that contains a usable quantity of iron. Common iron ore minerals include hematite, magnetite, limonite, and siderite. These are frequently found together with assorted silicates. Although iron does not occur in its pure form in nature, some kinds of iron ore contain up to 70% iron atoms. Iron ore consists of oxygen and iron atoms bonded together into molecules. To create pure iron, one must deoxygenate the ore, leaving only iron atoms behind. That is the essence of the refining process. To coax the oxygen atoms away from the iron ore requires heat and an alternate atomic partner for the oxygen to bond to. Carbon fills this role nicely, and is readily available in the form of everyday charcoal, or coke, a form of carbon made from coal. The carbon atoms bond with the oxygen in the ore to create carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, gases which escape out a chimney. Because iron ore typically contains silicates, which do not bond to the carbon, these remain in the iron
