Iron vs. Platinum

Attribute	Iron	Platinum
Atomic Number	26	78
Symbol	Fe	Pt
Atomic Mass	55.845 u	195.084 u
Physical State at Room Temperature	Solid	Solid
Color	Silvery-gray	Silvery-white
Melting Point	1538°C	1768.3°C
Boiling Point	2862°C	3825°C
Density	7.87 g/cm³	21.45 g/cm³

Physical Attributes

Iron and platinum are two metals that have distinct physical attributes. Iron is a silver-white metal that is known for its strength and durability. It is also magnetic, which sets it apart from many other metals. Platinum, on the other hand, is a dense, malleable, and ductile metal that is known for its resistance to corrosion. It has a silvery-white color and is often used in jewelry due to its lustrous appearance.

Iron has a melting point of 1538 degrees Celsius, while platinum has a much higher melting point of 1768 degrees Celsius. This makes platinum more suitable for high-temperature applications. Additionally, platinum is denser than iron, with a density of 21.45 grams per cubic centimeter compared to iron's density of 7.87 grams per cubic centimeter.

Chemical Properties

Iron and platinum also have different chemical properties. Iron is a reactive metal that readily forms oxides when exposed to air. This is why iron is prone to rusting, which can weaken the metal over time. Platinum, on the other hand, is a noble metal that is highly resistant to corrosion. This makes platinum a valuable material for use in chemical reactions and industrial processes.

Iron is also more reactive than platinum when it comes to reacting with acids. Iron will react with hydrochloric acid to produce iron chloride and hydrogen gas, while platinum is largely unaffected by most acids. This chemical stability is one of the reasons why platinum is often used in laboratory equipment and medical devices.

Industrial Applications

Both iron and platinum have a wide range of industrial applications due to their unique properties. Iron is one of the most commonly used metals in the world, with applications in construction, transportation, and manufacturing. It is used to make steel, which is essential for building structures, vehicles, and machinery.

Platinum, on the other hand, is a more specialized metal that is used in a variety of high-tech applications. It is used in catalytic converters to reduce emissions from vehicles, in electrical contacts for high-temperature applications, and in jewelry for its beauty and durability. Platinum is also used in the production of medical devices, such as pacemakers and surgical instruments.

Cost and Availability

One of the major differences between iron and platinum is their cost and availability. Iron is a relatively inexpensive metal that is abundant in the Earth's crust. This makes it a cost-effective option for many industrial applications. Platinum, on the other hand, is a rare metal that is more expensive and harder to come by.

Due to its rarity, platinum is often more expensive than gold and silver. This high cost is due to the limited supply of platinum and the high demand for its unique properties. In contrast, iron is widely available and relatively cheap, making it a more accessible option for many industries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, iron and platinum are two metals that have distinct physical, chemical, and industrial properties. Iron is a strong and durable metal that is widely used in construction and manufacturing, while platinum is a rare and valuable metal that is prized for its resistance to corrosion and high-temperature applications. While iron is more affordable and readily available, platinum is a more specialized metal that is used in high-tech industries such as automotive, electronics, and medical devices. Both metals have their own unique strengths and applications, making them essential materials in modern society.