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42 Mo

Molybdenum

Transition Metal
Atomic Mass
95.95 u
Density
10.28 g/cm³ (at 20 °C)
Melting Point
2623 °C
Boiling Point
4639 °C
State
Solid
Discovery
1778

Discovery

Identified by Carl Wilhelm Scheele in 1778. Isolated by Peter Jacob Hjelm in 1781.

Common Uses

  • Used extensively in high-strength steel alloys.
  • Molybdenum disulfide is used as a lubricant, especially in high-temperature applications.
  • Used as a catalyst in the petroleum industry.
  • Used in filaments for light bulbs.

Interesting Facts

  • The name comes from the Greek 'molybdos,' meaning lead, because it was often confused with lead and graphite.
  • Has a very high melting point.
  • An essential trace element for plants and animals.
  • Used in various industrial applications due to its hardness and stability at high temperatures.
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