Here we have to identify a piece of iron by its chemical property.
There are several chemical properties of iron for its identification but the simplest way to identify one of the renowned chemical property of iron is the formation of rust on iron in presence of water.
The iron in presence of water forms different types of iron oxides like hydrated Iron (III) oxide [Fe₂O₃.nH₂O], Iron (III) oxide-hydroxide [FeO(OH). Fe(OH)₃].
The rust is brown in color and forms only by keeping the iron piece in atmosphere. Although the humidity has an effect on the formation. The more humid the atmosphere there will be more chance to form rust on iron rod.