noun
iron ore
Refers to the raw mineral from which iron is extracted. Common in industrial and geological contexts.
日本は鉄鉱を海外からの輸入に頼っている。
Japan relies on imports of iron ore from overseas.
鉄鋼 means 'iron and steel' as materials, while 鉄鉱 specifically means 'iron ore'.
Compound of 鉄 (iron) and 鉱 (ore).