rhizoverbBeta
DictionarymolybdenumMetallic element
noun

molybdenum

muh-LIB-duh-num/məˈlɪbdənəm/

A metallic chemical element used to strengthen steel.

The silver-gray molybdenum specimen sits beside a strong alloy-steel shaft.

An irregular silver-gray molybdenum specimen beside a small machined alloy-steel shaft, connecting the metallic element with its use in strong alloys.
Etymology
molybdenumGreeklead; black graphite

Greek molybdos meant “lead” and could also name black graphite. The element was named for its resemblance to lead ore, continuing an older name used for lead-like minerals.

In context

Eagle Plains Resources (TSX-V: EPL)3:03
as these metal rich brines ascend and the pressure decreases they eventually reach their boiling point at which time metals drop out of the solution again copper first followed by molybdenum gold silver lead and zinc
Porphyry and Epithermal mineral Deposits

More examples

  • This grade of steel contains a small amount of molybdenum.
  • The mill orders molybdenum for its next batch of steel.
  • Engineers choose steel with molybdenum for parts that withstand heavy loads.

Forms

molybdenum