Molybdenum: meaning, definitions and examples
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molybdenum
[ məˈlɪb.də.nəm ]
chemical element
Molybdenum is a metal with the chemical symbol Mo and atomic number 42. It is known for its high melting point and durability, making it essential in various industrial applications, including steel production and as a catalyst. Molybdenum is also utilized in electrical contacts and filament materials due to its excellent conductivity and strength.
Examples of usage
- The steel alloy contains molybdenum for enhanced strength.
- Molybdenum is critical in the aerospace industry.
- Benefits of molybdenum include corrosion resistance.
Translations
Translations of the word "molybdenum" in other languages:
🇵🇹 molibdênio
🇮🇳 मोलीब्डेनम
🇩🇪 Molybdän
🇮🇩 molybdenum
🇺🇦 молібден
🇵🇱 molybden
🇯🇵 モリブデン
🇫🇷 molybdène
🇪🇸 molibdeno
🇹🇷 molybdenum
🇰🇷 몰리브덴
🇸🇦 موليبدينوم
🇨🇿 molybden
🇸🇰 molybdén
🇨🇳 钼
🇸🇮 molybden
🇮🇸 mólýbden
🇰🇿 молибден
🇬🇪 მოლიბდენი
🇦🇿 molybdenum
🇲🇽 molybdeno
Etymology
The word 'molybdenum' derives from the Greek word 'molybdos', meaning 'lead'. The name was first used in the 18th century when the element was recognized as distinct from lead and was isolated as a separate metal. The discovery of molybdenum as a unique element is credited to Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele in 1778, who initially thought he was dealing with lead minerals. It was later isolated in its elemental form by the chemist Henri Moissan in the late 19th century. As an element, molybdenum has gained significant importance due to its exceptional properties, particularly in metallurgy and its use in various industrial processes. The history of molybdenum emphasizes its significance in science and industry, shaping the way materials are utilized in technology today.