Cast iron was discovered in China during the Warring States period (4th century BC). In Europe, it was during the 19th century that cast iron became an essential part of the economy thanks to the widespread use of coke in blast furnaces. Cast iron is an alloy of iron and carbon in small percentages. It is distinguished from other alloys by its excellent flowability. Cast iron has a melting temperature ranging from 2,075°F (1,135°C) to 2,552°F (1,400°C), depending on the percentage of carbon and silicon it contains.