molybdenum [Mo]

Introduction

From the Greek molybdos meaning lead (its primary ore was once confused with a lead compound). Discovered in 1778 by the Swedish chemist Carl Welhel Scheele.

Occurrence

• found primarily in the ore molybdenite (MoS2)

Characteristics

• silvery-white hard metal
• resembles chromium & tungsten
• molybdenum compounds have low toxicity
• molydenum has oxidation states Mo+4, Mo+5, Mo+6

Uses

• trace element in plant & animal metabolism
  • nitrogen fixation
  • cofactor in enzymes (xanthine dehydrogenase)
• alloys:
  • strengthening & hardening steel
  • stainless steel

More general terms

• trace element
• metal

Additional terms

• Mo+6

Database

• PubChem: http://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/summary/summary.cgi?cid=23932