Iron furnaces are industrial structures used to smelt iron from its ore. They operate by heating iron ore, along with coke and limestone, to high temperatures. The coke serves as a fuel and a reducing agent, while the limestone helps remove impurities. The result is molten iron, which can be cast into various shapes. These furnaces played a crucial role during the Industrial Revolution, significantly increasing iron production. The development of iron furnaces contributed to advancements in construction, machinery, and transportation, making them essential for the growth of modern industries and infrastructure.