List the chemical properties of iron.

Pure iron is quite reactive. In a very finely dispersed state, metallic iron is pyrophoric (ignites spontaneously).

It combines vigorously with chlorine when heated gently, as well as many other non-metals, including all halogens, sulfur, phosphorus, boron, carbon and silicon (carbide and silicide phases play an important role in technical iron metallurgy).

Metallic iron dissolves easily in dilute mineral acids. With non-oxidizing acids and in the absence of air, iron is obtained in the +2 oxidation state. In the presence of air or when using warm dilute nitric acid, some of the iron goes into solution as an Fe 3+ ion.