Iron oxide is a chemical compound made up of iron and oxygen. It commonly appears in various forms, such as rust, which is a reddish-brown substance that forms when iron reacts with moisture and oxygen. Iron oxides are widely used in industries, including pigments for paints and coatings, as well as in the production of iron and steel. There are several types of iron oxide, including magnetite (Fe3O4) and hematite (Fe2O3). Magnetite is known for its magnetic properties, while hematite is often used as a pigment due to its rich color. Both forms are important in geology and can be found in various natural environments.