Definition

Molybdenum is a Group 6 element and it has a symbol Mo. The element, which is a silvery metal, has the sixth-highest melting point. It eagerly forms hard, stable carbides, and for this reason it is often used in high-strength steel alloys. Molybdenum does not occur as the free metal in nature, but quite in a variety of oxidation states in minerals.

Properties

Molybdenum is a transition metal with an electronegativity of 1.8 on the Pauling scale and an atomic mass of 95.94 g/mole. It does not react with oxygen or water at room temperature.

World Resources

Application

1. The capability of molybdenum to withstand extreme temperatures without considerably expanding makes it useful in application that involve intense heat, including the construct of aircraft parts, electrical contacts, industrial motors, and filaments.
2. Molybdenum is also used in alloys for its high corrosion resistance and weldability Molybdenum contribute corrosion resistance to type 316 stainless steel by 'gettering' residual carbon, preventing the formation of chromium carbide at grain boundaries.

Mining

Metals

Minerals

Precious Stones