Molybdenum is a silvery-grey metal with extraordinary strength and resistance to high temperatures. Although not as often discussed as iron or copper, molybdenum is essential in many modern technologies.
Atomic number: 42
Atomic mass: about 95.95 u
Position in the periodic table: Group 6, period 5
Class: Transition metals
Electron structure: [Kr] 4d⁵5s¹
Molybdenum is a silvery-grey metal with extraordinary strength and resistance to high temperatures. Although not as often discussed as iron or copper, molybdenum is essential in many modern technologies.
Discovery and naming
Molybdenum was first identified as a distinct element in 1778 by Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele, who discovered it in the mineral molybdenite (MoS₂). The name "molybdenum" comes from the Greek molybdos, meaning "lead-like," because molybdenite was often mistaken for a lead ore in ancient times.
Where is molybdenum found?
Molybdenum is not abundant in the Earth's crust, accounting for about 0.00011% by weight. It is primarily obtained from the mineral molybdenite and is also a byproduct of copper mining. Major producers of molybdenum include China, Chile, and the United States.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Melting Point: 2,623°C (4,753°F), one of the highest melting points of any metal.
Density: 10.28 g/cm³
Hardness: High strength and durability.
Corrosion Resistance: High resistance to chemical corrosion at elevated temperatures.
The physical and chemical properties of molybdenum make it invaluable in applications requiring heat resistance, durability, and chemical stability.
Biological Importance
Molybdenum is also essential to life, playing a vital role in enzymes that facilitate key biochemical processes in plants, animals, and humans. In humans, it supports:
Detoxification: Helps enzymes eliminate harmful sulfites.
Nitrogen Metabolism: Helps process nitrogen compounds.
Dietary sources of molybdenum include legumes, grains, and leafy vegetables. Although molybdenum is required in trace amounts, it is essential for maintaining good health.
Future Potential
Research on molybdenum is expanding, with exciting prospects in nanotechnology, renewable energy, and medicine. For example, molybdenum-based materials are being investigated for their potential in cancer treatment and advanced energy storage systems.
The element Mo, or molybdenum, is a remarkable transition metal with a wide range of applications and benefits. From strengthening steel to supporting life through enzyme activity, molybdenum’s unique properties make it a cornerstone of modern industry and biology. As our understanding and use of molybdenum grows, its importance in shaping the future of technology and sustainability will only grow.
