Iron is a strong, malleable metal that is the most abundant element on Earth. It is primarily extracted from iron ore through a process called smelting, where it is heated with carbon to remove impurities. Iron is essential for various applications, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation. Steel is an alloy made primarily of iron and a small amount of carbon. This combination enhances its strength and durability, making it ideal for building structures, vehicles, and tools. Different types of steel can be produced by varying the carbon content and adding other elements, resulting in materials suited for specific purposes.