Iron is considered an effective catalyst for several reasons: 1. Abundance and Cost: Iron is the fourth most common element in the Earth's crust, making it readily available and inexpensive compared to other transition metals. 2. Versatility: Iron can exist in multiple oxidation states (from -2 to +6), which allows it to participate in a wide range of chemical reactions. 3. Electron Configuration: Its electron configuration enables it to form complex structures with various ligands, enhancing its catalytic activity.
