The element primarily responsible for making steel is iron. Steel is an alloy made primarily of iron, with a small percentage of carbon, typically less than 2%. The addition of carbon enhances iron's strength and durability, making it suitable for various applications, from construction to manufacturing. Different types of steel can be produced by varying the amount of carbon and incorporating other elements, such as chromium, nickel, or vanadium, which can improve properties like corrosion resistance and toughness. The process of creating steel plays a crucial role in modern industry and infrastructure, impacting economies worldwide.