Iron is a chemical element with symbol Fe and atomic number 26. It is a metal that is found in various minerals, such as hematite and magnetite, and is an essential component of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Iron can be used to make tools, machines, and structures due to its strength and durability. It also plays a crucial role in various biological processes within living organisms.