Iridium is a dense, rare, and durable transition metal with the symbol Ir and atomic number 77. It is highly resistant to corrosion and possesses a very high melting point, contributing to its utility in extreme industrial environments. Due to its density and resistance to chemical degradation, it is often used in the development of specialized alloys, catalytic converters, and components for electronics. While it is found in various deposits, it is notably rare in terrestrial crusts, making meteoritic sources a common point of interest in geological and materials science research.