Iron vs. Ruthenium

Attribute	Iron	Ruthenium
Atomic Number	26	44
Symbol	Fe	Ru
Atomic Mass	55.845 u	101.07 u
Boiling Point	3134°C	3900°C
Melting Point	1538°C	2334°C
Color	Silvery-gray	Silvery-white

Physical Properties

Iron and ruthenium are both transition metals, but they have different physical properties. Iron is a silver-white metal that is known for its strength and durability. It has a melting point of 1538 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 2861 degrees Celsius. Ruthenium, on the other hand, is a rare metal that is silvery-white in color. It has a melting point of 2334 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 4150 degrees Celsius. Ruthenium is much denser than iron, with a density of 12.45 g/cm3 compared to iron's density of 7.87 g/cm3.

Chemical Properties

Iron and ruthenium also differ in their chemical properties. Iron is a reactive metal that readily forms oxides when exposed to air. This is why iron rusts when it comes into contact with moisture. Ruthenium, on the other hand, is a noble metal that is resistant to corrosion. It is one of the most corrosion-resistant metals known, making it ideal for use in applications where durability is important. Ruthenium also has a higher melting point than iron, which makes it useful in high-temperature applications.

Uses

Iron and ruthenium have different uses 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, bridges, and vehicles. Ruthenium, on the other hand, is a rare metal that is used in specialized applications. It is used in the production of electrical contacts, as a catalyst in chemical reactions, and in the manufacture of jewelry. Ruthenium is also used in the aerospace industry for its high melting point and corrosion resistance.

Abundance

Iron is one of the most abundant elements on Earth, making up about 5% of the Earth's crust. It is found in a variety of minerals, including hematite, magnetite, and taconite. Ruthenium, on the other hand, is a rare metal that is found in only small amounts in the Earth's crust. It is typically found in association with other platinum group metals, such as platinum and palladium. Due to its rarity, ruthenium is more expensive than iron and is not as widely used in commercial applications.

Toxicity

Iron is an essential nutrient for humans and is found in many foods, such as red meat, poultry, and beans. However, excessive intake of iron can be toxic and lead to iron overload in the body. This can cause damage to organs such as the liver and heart. Ruthenium, on the other hand, is not considered essential for human health and is not found in food. While ruthenium is not known to be toxic, there is limited information available on its effects on human health. It is important to handle ruthenium with care and follow safety guidelines when working with this metal.