Iron is a strong, metallic element commonly used in construction and manufacturing. It is essential for making steel, which is an alloy of iron and carbon. Iron is abundant in the Earth's crust and is primarily extracted from iron ore through mining processes. Coal is a fossil fuel formed from ancient plant material that has been subjected to heat and pressure over millions of years. It is primarily used as a source of energy for electricity generation and in industrial processes. Coal is mined from the ground and can be found in various types, including anthracite, bituminous, and lignite.