The primary component of steel is iron. Steel is an alloy made primarily from iron, with a small percentage of carbon and other alloying elements added to enhance its properties. The inclusion of carbon increases the hardness and strength of iron, making steel a versatile and widely used material in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, and automotive. The production of steel involves the smelting of iron ore, which is then mixed with carbon and other elements in controlled processes to create different grades of steel, suitable for specific applications.