Final Answer:
The type of iron resulting from a primitive iron refinery, such as a bloomery, is typically wrought iron.
Step-by-step explanation:
Wrought iron is the product of the bloomery process, a primitive method of iron smelting. In a bloomery, iron ore is heated in the presence of charcoal, resulting in the reduction of iron oxides to elemental iron. The term "wrought" refers to the malleability and ductility of the iron produced in this way. Unlike cast iron, which is brittle due to its higher carbon content, wrought iron has a lower carbon content, typically around 0.1% to 0.3%. This lower carbon content makes wrought iron more malleable and ductile, suitable for forging and shaping into various tools and artifacts.
The reduction reaction occurring in the bloomery can be represented as follows:
[Fe_2O_3 + 3C rightarrow 2Fe + 3CO]
This equation illustrates the reduction of iron(III) oxide (Fe2O3) to elemental iron (Fe) in the presence of carbon (C). The carbon monoxide (CO) produced acts as a reducing agent. The result is a mass of spongy iron known as a bloom, which is then worked and shaped through additional heating and hammering to remove impurities and consolidate the metal. The final product, wrought iron, has a fibrous structure and is characterized by its toughness and ability to be shaped under heat.
In conclusion, the bloomery process yields wrought iron, a material valued for its versatility and workability in ancient metallurgy. The reduction of iron oxide with carbon in a bloomery furnace produces a raw iron bloom that undergoes further refining through forging to create wrought iron suitable for various applications in toolmaking and craftsmanship.