Feature Earth

Iron-loving elements tell stories of Earth’s history

Platinum, gold and other rare metals are treasure trove

iron

PRECIOUS METAL  Geochemists explore platinum, gold and other rare elements that are attracted to iron to understand how Earth's core formed billions of years ago. 

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By Alexandra Witze

- More than 2 years ago

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Four and a half billion years ago, after Earth’s fiery birth, the infant planet began to radically reshape itself, separating into distinct layers.