Final answer:
The allotropy of iron refers to its ability to exist in different forms with different crystal structures. This process is important to understand because it affects the physical and mechanical properties of iron.
Step-by-step explanation:
The allotropy of iron refers to the ability of iron to exist in different forms with different crystal structures and properties. The two most common allotropes of iron are alpha iron, which has a body-centered cubic crystal structure, and gamma iron, which has a face-centered cubic crystal structure. This process is important to understand because it affects the physical and mechanical properties of iron, such as its strength, ductility, and magnetism. For example, alpha iron is soft and ductile, while gamma iron is harder and more brittle.