Molybdenum
🔩 In Your World
Molybdenum is a silvery-grey metal with one of the highest melting points of all pure elements. This makes it incredibly valuable for creating high-strength steel alloys that can withstand extreme temperatures and pressures. These alloys are used in aircraft parts, electrical contacts, and industrial motors. Its compound, molybdenum disulfide, is a high-temperature lubricant. It is also an essential trace nutrient for most living organisms.
📖 The Discovery Story
For centuries, molybdenum ore was confused with lead ore. In 1778, Swedish scientist Carl Wilhelm Scheele proved that the mineral (molybdenite) did not contain lead and was a new element. In 1781, Peter Jacob Hjelm successfully isolated the metal by heating its oxide with carbon. The name comes from the Ancient Greek word molybdos, meaning "lead," reflecting the historical confusion.
📊 Properties at a Glance
| Phase at STP | Solid |
| Melting Point | 2623 °C / 4753 °F |
| Boiling Point | 4639 °C / 8382 °F |
| Electron Configuration | [Kr] 4d⁵5s¹ |
| Abundance in Earth's Crust | 0.00011% |
⚠️ Safety & Handling
Molybdenum metal and its compounds have a relatively low toxicity. However, long-term exposure to high levels of molybdenum dust or fumes in industrial settings can cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory system.