The difference between zinc and iron lies mainly in their roles inside the human body. Zinc supports immune function and helps prevent illnesses, while iron is essential for carrying oxygen to tissues and organs. Both minerals are vital, but each contributes to health in unique ways.
Zinc and iron are two essential minerals our body relies on every day. Although both are crucial, their functions are not the same. Zinc mainly strengthens the immune system, whereas iron enables the transport of oxygen through hemoglobin. Knowing the difference between zinc and iron helps you maintain proper nutrition and avoid deficiencies.
What Is Zinc?
Zinc is a chemical element with the symbol Zn and atomic number 30. It is a post-transition metal found in group 12 of the periodic table.
Physical and Chemical Properties of Zinc
- Atomic weight: 65.38
- Appearance: Silver-grey, bluish-white, lustrous metal
- Structure: Hexagonal close-packed
- Melting point: 420°C
- Boiling point: 907°C
- Electron configuration: [Ar] 3d¹⁰ 4s²
- Shows a +2 oxidation state
- Becomes malleable between 100–150°C
- Fair conductor of electricity
Occurrence of Zinc
Zinc represents about 0.0075% of Earth’s crust. It is typically found in:
- Soil
- Seawater
- Lead and copper ores
- Sulfide minerals
Biological Importance of Zinc
Zinc is a trace mineral, but its role is enormous:
- Supports immune system
- Helps nearly 100 enzymes function properly
- Plays a role in DNA synthesis
- Aids cell division
- Supports wound healing
- Helps in protein building
- Contributes to normal growth and development
Common Dietary Sources of Zinc
- Whole grains
- Red meat
- Poultry
- Milk products
- Oysters
What Is Iron?
Iron is a chemical element with the symbol Fe and atomic number 26. It is one of the most abundant elements on Earth and a key transition metal.
Physical and Chemical Properties of Iron
- Melting point: 1538°C
- Boiling point: 2862°C
- Density: 7.8 g/cm³
- Common oxidation states: +2, +3
- Allotropes: Alpha, Gamma, Theta, Epsilon
- Crystal structures:
- Body-centered cubic (BCC)
- Face-centered cubic (FCC)
Biological Importance of Iron
Iron is a vital mineral for several life-supporting functions:
- Forms hemoglobin, which carries oxygen from the lungs to body cells
- Supports myoglobin production in muscles
- Helps in energy metabolism
- Essential for growth and development
Common Dietary Sources of Iron
- Red meat
- Pork
- Seafood
- Beans
- Dark leafy vegetables (spinach, kale)
- Fortified cereals
Key Difference Between Zinc and Iron (Tabular Form)
| Feature | Zinc | Iron |
| Chemical Symbol | Zn | Fe |
| Atomic Number | 30 | 26 |
| Main Body Function | Immune support | Oxygen transport |
| Abundance | Trace mineral | Abundant in body |
| Oxidation State | +2 | +2, +3 |
| Melting Point | 420°C | 1538°C |
| Boiling Point | 907°C | 2862°C |
| Dietary Sources | Oysters, meat, grains | Meat, beans, leafy greens |
Conclusion: Zinc vs Iron
The key difference between zinc and iron is their primary role in the body.
- Zinc helps prevent illness by boosting immune function and supporting enzyme activity.
- Iron is responsible for transporting oxygen through hemoglobin and supporting muscle function.
Zinc is derived mainly from whole grains, seafood, and dairy products. Iron comes from red meat, leafy vegetables, beans, and fortified foods.
Reference:
- “Zinc: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews.” WebMD.
- Iron – Uses, Side Effects– WebMD.
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