STEEL, iron united with carbone, from which it possesses properties distinct from those of iron, and which render it of superior value. From its higher degree of hardness, it admits a finer polish and assumes a brighter colour. When tempered, it possesses a higher degree of elasticity, and is also more sonorous. It is more weakly attracted by the loadstone, it receives more slowly the magnetic power, but it preserves it longer. When exposed to a moist air, it does not contract rust so easily as iron. See IRON, CHEMISTRY Index.