Electronic Configuration of Iron: Learn its Valency and Uses

The way electrons are arranged around the nucleus of an atom is called its electronic configuration. This arrangement plays a key role in understanding an element’s behaviour like how it reacts with other substances, its magnetic properties, and where it fits in the periodic table. It also helps explain how atoms bond and form different chemical compounds.

When we look at the electronic configuration of iron, we can better understand its reactivity, common oxidation states, and role in biological processes. Iron is one of the most common and important transition metals found on Earth. Its special properties make it useful in many areas from construction and transportation to energy systems and even biological processes in our body. 

Chemistry Notes Free PDFs

Topic	PDF Link
Chemical Equilibrium Notes	Download PDF
Quantum Number in Chemistry Notes	Download PDF
Circle Study Notes of Maths	Download PDF
Alternating Current Notes	Download PDF
Friction in Physics	Download PDF
Class 11 Biology Short Notes PDF	Download PDF
Class 12 Biology Short Notes PDF	Download PDF

Electronic Configuration of Iron

Iron (Fe) has an atomic number of 26, which means it has 26 electrons. The shorthand electronic configuration of iron is [Ar] 3d⁶ 4s²

This means that iron has : 

• 6 electrons in the 3d orbital
• 2 electrons in the outermost 4s orbital

If we write the full configuration, it looks like this:

 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d⁶
The way these electrons are arranged helps explain iron's chemical and physical behavior like how it reacts with other substances, its magnetic nature, and how it forms bonds. Since iron is a transition metal with a partly filled d-orbital, it can easily form different types of chemical bonds. This makes it useful in many fields like construction, transport, and even biological systems.

Iron commonly shows two oxidation states:Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺. Here's how their electronic configurations change:

• Fe²⁺ (Iron II):

When iron loses 2 electrons from the 4s orbitals, its configuration becomes:[Ar] 3d6.

• Fe³⁺ (Iron III):

In this case, iron loses 3 electrons-two from the 4s orbitals and one from the 3d orbital. So, the configuration becomes:[Ar] 3d5.

These changes in configuration affect how iron behaves in different chemical reactions and compounds. 

Valency of Iron 

An element’s valency is based on how many electrons it gains,loses, or shares to reach a stable (noble gas) configuration. In iron, most electrons in the 3d orbitals are unpaired, with only one pair. Iron commonly shows valency of +2 and +3. It has a valency of +2 when it loses both 4s electrons. Sometimes, it also loses one electron from the 3d orbital, making all 3d electrons unpaired and more stable. In that case, its valency becomes +3.

Uses of Iron

Iron is one of the most useful and widely used metals in everyday life and industries. Here are some of its common applications:

Residential Uses of Iron 

Iron is commonly used in homes because it is strong, durable and versatile. Some of its main uses in the residential sector include:

• Furniture: Used to make study items like chairs, tables, and bed frames.
• Railings and Handrails: Adds both safety and style to stairs and balconies.
• Decor items: Used in wall art, sculptures, and decorative pieces to enhance interiors.
• Cookware: Iron pots and pans are popular for their even heating and durability.
• Tools: Essential tools like hammers and wrenches are often made of iron.
• Lighting Fixtures: Found in various styles of indoor and outdoor lighting.
• Door and Window Fittings: Used for hinges, handles, and frames.
• Outdoor Furniture: Ideal for grills, garden chairs, and patio furniture because it can withstand weather conditions.

Industrial Applications

Iron plays a major role in many industries thanks to its strength, availability, and low cost. Here are some key areas where it’s used:

• Construction: Iron is used to build bridges, buildings, and other structures.
• Manufacturing: It’s used to make machines, vehicles, appliances, and tools.
• Energy: Iron parts are found in power plants and electrical transformers.
• Transport: Trains, ships, and cars all rely heavily on iron components.
• Agriculture: Iron is used in farming equipment like tractors and ploughs.
• Mining: Tools and heavy machines for mining are made using iron.
• Healthcare: MRI machines and some medical tools contain iron parts.
• Defence: Military vehicles, tanks, and equipment often use iron.
• Art & Architecture: Iron is shaped into gates, sculptures, and decorative structures.
• Telecommunication: Poles, towers, and support structures are often made of iron.