Molybdenum

Molybdenum (Mo) is a chemical element in the periodic table with atomic number 42, discovered by Carl Wilhelm Scheele in 1778. Its name is derived from the Greek word Molybdos which means lead. It is a silvery-white, hard transition metal and has one of the highest melting points of all pure elements.

Most molybdenum is used to make alloys. It is used in steel alloys to increase strength, hardness, electrical conductivity and resistance to corrosion and wear. These 'moly steel' alloys are used in parts of engines. Other alloys are used in heating elements, drills and saw blades.

Hydrogen

Identity.

Molybdenum metal is a dark-gray or black powder with a metallic luster (NLM 2020a). It is a transition element in Group 6 of the Periodic Table. It has oxidation states from −2 to +6. Commonly encountered compounds are those of molybdenum in oxidation state +6 (Mo(VI), MoO3, molybdates) and +4 (Mo(IV), MoS2).

History.

Molybdenum's story begins with mistaken identity. The mineral containing molybdenum, molybdenite, was often confused with lead ore or graphite for centuries. It wasn't until 1778 that Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele identified molybdenite as distinct and containing a potentially new element. However, isolating the element itself proved challenging.

Finally, in 1781, another Swedish chemist, Peter Jacob Hjelm, successfully isolated molybdenum using carbon and linseed oil. Despite this discovery, molybdenum remained largely unused for nearly a century due to its scarcity, difficulty in extraction, and limited understanding of its properties.

Paracelsus

Usage.

  • High-temperature applications: Molybdenum's ability to withstand high temperatures makes it suitable for heating elements in furnaces, kilns, and other industrial processes.
  • Catalysts: Molybdenum compounds act as catalysts in various chemical reactions, including oil refining, fertilizer production, and plastic manufacturing. These catalysts improve the efficiency and speed of these reactions.
  • Lubricants: Molybdenum disulfide, a compound of molybdenum, is used as a solid lubricant in extreme pressure and high-temperature environments.
Some of the benefits of using molybdenum are:
  • Molybdenum is a cofactor for several enzymes involved in breaking down purines, sulfites, and some toxins in the body.
  • Molybdenum helps with the conversion of xanthine to uric acid, which is a necessary step in iron recycling.
  • Molybdenum is found in a wide range of foods, including legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains, organ meats, and dairy products.

Sources.