Molybdenum. Number 42. Mo. Atomic weight: 95.94.
Electron Configuration
Melting Point
Boiling Point
Density
Color
Physical State at Room Temperature
Common Ion Charges
Reactions
Common Compounds
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[Kr] 5s2 4d4
2623 °C
4640 °C
10280 kg m^-3
Silver-white/grey metallic
Solid
Mo6+ (most stable)
Reacts with oxygen at high temps (red heat), forms trioxide molybdenum(VI) oxide (MoO3), does not react with water, reacts with fluorine at room temp to form molybdenum(VI) fluoride (MoF6), does not dissolve in most acids (such as hydrochloric acid)
Molybdenum trifluoride, Molybdenum dichloride, Molybdenum trichloride, Molybdenum tribromide, Molybdenum diiodide, Molybdenum oxide, Molybdenum trioxide,Molybdenum nitride
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Discovery: Molybdenum was discovered by by Carl William Scheele in 1781 in Sweden. The name comes from the Greek word "molybdos" which means "lead". The ore is known as molybdenite, which was what Scheele was studying at the time of discovery, when he concluded that it was a new element and that it was not lead.
Uses: Molybdenum is an important trace element in plants, and provides them with nutrients similar to phosphate or sulfate. Molybdenum can only be found as part of molybdenite, or can be found from meteorites It is also used to strengthen steel and as an alloying agent, or used as electrodes in glass furnaces. Molybdenum disulphide can be used as a lubricant, due to its high melting point, while other oils would melt before at low temperatures.
Hazards: In large quantities, Molybdenum is toxic, as well as long-term exposure to its dust and fumes.
Uses: Molybdenum is an important trace element in plants, and provides them with nutrients similar to phosphate or sulfate. Molybdenum can only be found as part of molybdenite, or can be found from meteorites It is also used to strengthen steel and as an alloying agent, or used as electrodes in glass furnaces. Molybdenum disulphide can be used as a lubricant, due to its high melting point, while other oils would melt before at low temperatures.
Hazards: In large quantities, Molybdenum is toxic, as well as long-term exposure to its dust and fumes.