Molybdenum (Mo): Properties, Uses and Facts in 3D
Molybdenum is element 42 on the periodic table, a transition metal. At room temperature it is a solid. Open it in the 3D Periodic Table to spin its tile, see its electron shells and read its story.
Explore in 3DMolybdenum quick facts
| Atomic number | 42 |
|---|---|
| Symbol | Mo |
| Atomic mass | 95.95 |
| Category | Transition Metal |
| Group and period | Group 6, period 5 |
| Block | d-block |
| State at room temperature | Solid |
| Electron configuration | [Kr] 4d⁵ 5s¹ |
| Electrons per shell | 2, 8, 18, 13, 1 |
| Discovered | 1781, Hjelm |
What is molybdenum used for?
- High-strength steel alloying agent
- Molybdenum disulfide as dry lubricant
- High-temperature furnace parts
Interesting facts about molybdenum
- Molybdenum has the sixth-highest melting point of all elements (2,623°C)
- Molybdenum is essential for life. Nitrogenase enzyme that fixes nitrogen requires it
- Molybdenum disulfide is widely used as a lubricant on spacecraft because it works in a vacuum
Molybdenum was discovered in 1781 by Hjelm in Sweden.
Where molybdenum sits on the periodic table
Molybdenum is in group 6, period 5. Tap any element to open its page.
Other transition metals
Molybdenum questions
What is the atomic number of molybdenum?
Molybdenum has atomic number 42, so every molybdenum atom has 42 protons in its nucleus. Its symbol is Mo and its atomic mass is 95.95.
Is molybdenum a metal?
Molybdenum is a metal. On the periodic table it is grouped as a transition metal, found in group 6, period 5.
What is the electron configuration of molybdenum?
The electron configuration of molybdenum is [Kr] 4d⁵ 5s¹. Its electrons sit in 5 shells: 2, 8, 18, 13, 1.
What is molybdenum used for?
Molybdenum is used for high-strength steel alloying agent, molybdenum disulfide as dry lubricant and high-temperature furnace parts.
Who discovered molybdenum?
Molybdenum was discovered in 1781 by Hjelm in Sweden.
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