Molybdenum facts for kids

A piece of crystalline molybdenum next to a 1 cubic centimeter cube

Molybdenum is a special kind of material called a chemical element. Its short symbol is Mo. It's number 42 on the periodic table, which means it has 42 protons in its atoms. Molybdenum gets its name from a Greek word that means "looks like lead." When it's pure, it's a shiny, silvery-white metal. You won't find pure molybdenum in nature. Instead, it's usually found inside a mineral called molybdenite.

What is Molybdenum Used For?

Molybdenum is often mixed with other metals to create strong alloys. For example, it's used in stainless steel to make it even tougher. It helps metals stay strong even when they get very hot. It also makes them less likely to rust or corrode.

Everyday Tools and Machines

Because of these special qualities, molybdenum is great for making tools that need to be very strong. You can find it in high-speed tools like drills and saw blades. It helps these tools cut through hard materials without breaking.

Advanced Technology

Molybdenum is also used in important parts for aircraft and missiles. It's even found in nuclear reactors, where its strength and heat resistance are very important.

Safe for Food and Medicine

Another cool thing about molybdenum is that it's not toxic (harmful). This means it can be used safely in things that touch our food and medicine. For example, it helps make metal bowls and containers used in preparing food and medicines.

How Molybdenum Was Discovered

People used molybdenum for many years without knowing exactly what it was. It was first identified as a unique element in 1778. A Swedish scientist named Carl Wilhelm Scheele was the one who figured this out.

Separating the Element

A few years later, in 1782, another scientist named Peter Jacob Hjelm took the next step. He was able to separate molybdenum into a dark powder. He gave this new substance the name "molybdenum."

First Mining Site

The first place where molybdenum was mined in large amounts was in 1916. This happened at a place called Climax, near Leadville in Colorado, USA.

Images for kids

• 

  Keggin structure of the phosphomolybdate anion (P[Mo12O40]3−), an example of a polyoxometalate

• 

  Molybdenite on quartz

• 

  A plate of molybdenum copper alloy

See also

In Spanish: Molibdeno para niños