Iron ore is a naturally occurring mineral from which iron (Fe) is extracted. It is the primary source of iron, which is a critical material used in the production of steel, an essential component in construction, machinery, transportation, and various industries. Iron ore typically comes in forms such as hematite (Fe2O3), magnetite (Fe3O4), and limonite (FeOOH·nH2O), with hematite being the most common and valuable for iron production.

The extraction process involves mining the ore, which is then crushed, concentrated, and smelted in a blast furnace. During this process, iron ore is heated in the presence of coke and limestone to remove impurities and produce molten iron. This molten iron is then alloyed with carbon and other elements to create steel.

Iron ore is one of the most mined minerals globally, with major producers including countries like China, Australia, and Brazil. It plays a fundamental role in industrial development and economic growth worldwide