Question

Iron is a/an:

Answer 1

Hint : The metals which consist of partially filled d-subshell or their cationic form have incomplete d-subshell is termed as transition metal. Generally, the metals of d-block elements are known as transition metals. These metals have a special property of showing variable oxidation states.

Complete Step By Step Answer:
The element of iron metal is symbolized by $Fe$ and its atomic number is $26$ . The origin of the symbol $Fe$ is derived from the Latin word “Ferrum” which means iron. It is placed at the sixth position of the first transition metal series i.e., $3d$ series. Iron metal shows a broad range of oxidation states i.e., $- 2$ to $+ 7$ . But the most common oxidation states in which iron exists are $+ 2$ and $+ 3$ .
The noble gas configuration of iron metal is as follows:
$Fe = [Ar]3{d^6}4{s^2}$
As the d-subshell of the atom is partially filled i.e., some of the orbitals are vacant. Therefore, we can conclude that iron is a transition metal element.

Additional Information:
Iron is used widely in several sectors like manufacturing, construction, buildings, etc.
Some of the major applications of iron are given below:
Most commonly used to produce magnets.
Used in production of cast iron or steel
It plays an important role in the formation of alloys.

Note :
The naming of compounds of iron is based on the oxidation state of the iron. If the iron metal forms a compound while having an oxidation state of $+ 2$ , then the ion is named as ferrous whereas if the oxidation state of iron is $+ 3$ then the ion is named as ferric.