Molybdenum, a metallic element with the symbol Mo, is known for its high melting point and use in steel alloys. Despite its importance, the spelling of this word can be tripping for many. The word is pronounced as /məˈlɪbdənəm/ with the emphasis on the second syllable. The tricky part is the 'b' and 'd' sounds in the middle, which are often confused due to their similarities in speech. Remembering that the correct spelling has 'b' before 'd' can help prevent errors.
Molybdenum is a chemical element with the symbol Mo and atomic number 42. It belongs to the group 6 elements on the periodic table, along with chromium and tungsten. Molybdenum is a transition metal that is silvery-gray in color and has a high melting point of 2,623 degrees Celsius (4,753 degrees Fahrenheit).
This element is renowned for its exceptional strength and heat resistance, making it an essential component in various industrial applications. It is primarily used as an alloying agent to enhance the strength and hardness of steel, as well as improve its corrosion resistance. Molybdenum alloys are extensively employed in the aerospace, automotive, and construction industries.
In addition to its mechanical properties, molybdenum also boasts remarkable chemical properties. It is highly resistant to chemical corrosion, making it ideal for use in environments with aggressive chemicals or extreme temperatures. Molybdenum compounds are utilized in catalysts, lubricants, glass production, and electronics.
Furthermore, molybdenum is an essential micronutrient required by humans, animals, and plants. Though the daily intake needed is relatively small, it plays a crucial role in various enzymatic reactions necessary for healthy growth, metabolism, and nitrogen fixation in plants.
Overall, molybdenum is a versatile and highly valuable element that exhibits remarkable mechanical and chemical properties, making it indispensably utilized in various industrial sectors while also being a vital nutrient for living organisms.
A silvery white metallic element, symbol Mo, atomic weight 96.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A very rare, white, brittle metal, obtained with difficulty from its ore, molybdenite.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word molybdenum is derived from the Greek word molybdos, which means lead. This is because the ancient Greeks initially confused this metal with lead due to its similar appearance. The element was later reclassified and renamed by Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele in 1778 to molybdenum.