What is the Difference Between Iron and Gold?

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Iron and gold are two distinct metals with various differences in their physical and chemical properties. Some of the key differences between iron and gold include:

  1. Tensile strength and durability: Iron has a higher tensile strength and is more durable than gold.
  2. Resistance to corrosion: Gold is more resistant to corrosion than iron.
  3. Electrical and thermal conductivity: Gold is a better conductor of electricity and heat than iron.
  4. Chemical activity: Iron is chemically active, while gold is chemically inactive.
  5. Atomic number and weight: Gold has an atomic number of 79 and an atomic weight of 196.96 g/mol, while iron has an atomic number of 26 and an atomic weight of 55.845 g/mol.
  6. Melting and boiling points: Gold has a melting point of 1062°C and a boiling point of 2856°C, while iron has a melting point of 1535°C and a boiling point of 2750°C.
  7. Magnetism: Iron is magnetic, while gold is non-magnetic.
  8. Density: Gold has a density of 19.03 g/cm³, while iron has a density of 7.87 g/cm³.
  9. Color: Gold has a yellow color, while fresh iron has a silver color.
  10. Cost: Gold is more expensive than iron.

Both metals have their unique properties and uses, and the choice between them depends on the specific application and desired outcome. Gold is highly valued for its rarity, beauty, and conductivity, while iron is prized for its strength, durability, and versatility.

Comparative Table: Iron vs Gold

Here is a table comparing the differences between iron and gold:

Property Iron Gold
Periodic Symbol Fe Au
Atomic Number 26 79
Atomic Weight 55.845 g/mol 196.96 g/mol
Phase at STP Solid Solid
Color Gray Gold
Metallic Classification Transition Metal Transition Metal
Group in Periodic Table Group 8 (iron family) Group 11 (copper family)
Period in Periodic Table Period 4 Period 6
Block in Periodic Table d-block d-block
Melting Point 1811 K 1337.33 K
Boiling Point 3134 K 3129 K
CAS Number CAS7439-89-6 CAS7440-57-5
Electronic Configuration [Ar] 3d6 4s2 [Xe] 4f14 5d10 6s1
Electronic Shell Structure 2, 8, 14, 2 2, 8, 18, 32, 18, 1
Group Name Iron Copper
Neighborhood Elements Various Various

Please note that the data in this table is taken from the search results.