Iron: Difference between revisions
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'''Iron''' is an elemental metal, frequently used in [[medieval]] times for [[weapons]], [[tool|tools]] and [[armour]]. Its |
'''Iron''' is an elemental metal, frequently used in [[medieval]] times for [[weapons]], [[tool|tools]] and [[armour]]. Its atomic symbol ''Fe'' derives from its Latin name ''ferrum''. Due to its utility and the difficulty of [[mine|mining]] and smelting and [[blacksmith|working]] it, iron was (and is) relatively expensive. |
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[[Steel]] is an alloy of iron and carbon, and quite uncommon in the medieval period. |
[[Steel]] is an alloy of iron and carbon, and quite uncommon in the medieval period. |
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Revision as of 16:40, 28 April 2006
Iron is an elemental metal, frequently used in medieval times for weapons, tools and armour. Its atomic symbol Fe derives from its Latin name ferrum. Due to its utility and the difficulty of mining and smelting and working it, iron was (and is) relatively expensive.
Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, and quite uncommon in the medieval period.
Both steel and iron will oxidize, causing rust, which weakens the metal. For this reason, period armour was often painted or left covered in forgeblack, rather than being polished. If armour was polished, it needed frequent scouring and oiling to maintain it.
