Manganese is a metal element denoted by the atomic symbol Mn. Its atomic number is 25 and its atomic weight is 54.93805. It is a silver-grey metal that has a melting point of 2274.8°F (1246°C) and a boiling point of 3741.8°F (2061°C). Manganese is one of the transition metals on the periodic table. It falls between iron and chromium and shares some properties with these metals. It reacts in air and in water, and it combines easily with other elements to form many compounds. The most common of these compounds is manganese dioxide (MnO₂), which is found in pyrolusite ore. A less abundant ore, rhodochrosite, contains manganese carbonate (MnCO₃). Pure manganese, which does not exist in nature, is rarely used.

When added to steel, manganese increases the strength of the alloy, or mixture of metals. Manganese also cleanses the steel by removing oxygen and sulfur impurities...