It is the fourth-most abundant element in the earth's crust, and is thought to comprise a major section of the earth's core. Iron is in great abundance in the universe - for instance, it is found in many stars, including the sun. Iron is a good conductor of heat and electricity and is easily magnetized. Biologically it is very important as well.
Anemia can sometimes be the result of an iron deficiency.
Iron is rarely found uncombined in nature, except in meteorites. The principal ores of iron are magnetite , hematite , limonite , siderite , and taconite . Major iron ore producers include Russia , Australia , Brazil , China , India , and the United States . For further information on iron, visit The International Iron and Steel Institute .