Molybdenum is a refractory transition metal that strengthens alloys and participates in essential biological enzymes.
Atomic number
42
Category
Transition metal
Period
5
Group
6
State
Solid
Fun facts about Molybdenum
It retains strength at temperatures that soften many common metals.
Molybdenum disulfide is a useful solid lubricant.
Nitrogen-fixing enzymes often contain molybdenum.
Common uses of Molybdenum
High-temperature steels
Solid lubricants
Petroleum-refining catalysts
Where Molybdenum sits in the periodic table
Molybdenum is classified as a transition metal in period 5 and group 6 of the periodic table. Under the conditions represented in this reference, its state is solid.
Quick chemistry revision
For quick revision, pair the symbol Mo with atomic number 42 and the listed atomic mass 95.95. The summary, facts, and uses above keep those element properties together in one reference.