Cast iron is a type of iron alloy that contains a high percentage of carbon, typically between 2% and 4%. This composition gives cast iron its characteristic hardness and brittleness. It is commonly used in cookware, such as skillets and Dutch ovens, as well as in construction materials like pipes and machinery parts due to its excellent durability and ability to withstand high temperatures. The manufacturing process of cast iron involves melting iron and pouring it into molds to create various shapes. There are different types of cast iron, including gray cast iron, ductile cast iron, and white cast iron, each with unique properties suited for specific applications.