and Observations on Wootz. 
337 
principally iron. Wootz is proved to be iron by the obvious 
properties (§ 2.) ; by its filings being attracted by the magnet 
(§ 2.); by its specific gravity (§ 2.) ; by its affording nothing 
but sulfate of iron, hydrogen gaz, and a trifling residue, on so- 
lution in diluted sulphuric acid (§ 6.). 
With regard to the particular state of iron, called wootz, I 
think I cannot explain its nature satisfactorily, without first 
relating the properties, and explaining the interior structure, 
of the principal different metallic states of iron. I imagine I 
shall be best able to execute this design by stating precisely 
the just meaning of the terms, which denote, commonly, the 
three principal metallic states of iron, namely, wrought or 
forged iron , steel , and cast or. raw iron. 
1. Wrought or forged iron I understand to be that which 
possesses the following properties. 
a. It is malleable and ductile in every temperature ; and 
the more readily the higher the temperature. a 
b. It is susceptible ; of but little induration (and if pure it is 
most probably susceptible of none at all) by immersing it, 
when ignited, in a cold medium ; as in water, fat oil, mer- 
cury. Nor is it on the contrary susceptible of . emollition 
by igniting, and letting the fire be separated from it very 
gradually. 
c. It cannot be melted, without addition ; but it may be 
rendered quite soft by fire, and in that soft state it is very 
tough and malleable. 
d. It can easily be reduced to filings. 
e. By being surrounded with carbon for a sufficient length 
of time, at a-due temperature, it becomes steel. 
/. It does not become black upon its surface, but equally 
