Molybdenum Overview
Molybdenum (Mo) is a transition metal that is essential for various industrial applications and biological processes.
Physical Properties
- Appearance: Molybdenum is a silvery-gray metal.
- Melting Point: It has a high melting point of approximately 2,623°C (4,753°F).
- Density: The density of molybdenum is 10.28 g/cm³, making it quite heavy.
Chemical Properties
- Reactivity: Molybdenum is relatively unreactive at room temperature but can form compounds with other elements at higher temperatures.
- Oxidation States: It commonly exhibits oxidation states of +2, +3, +4, +5, and +6.
Uses of Molybdenum
- Alloy Production: Molybdenum is primarily used to produce high-strength steel alloys, enhancing hardness and resistance to corrosion.
- Electrical Contacts: Due to its excellent conductivity, molybdenum is used in electrical contacts and filaments.
- Catalysts: It serves as a catalyst in the petroleum industry for hydrodesulfurization.
Biological Importance
- Nutritional Role: Molybdenum is an essential trace element in human nutrition, playing a key role in enzyme functions.
- Enzymatic Reactions: It aids enzymes that facilitate the metabolism of sulfur-containing amino acids.
Environmental Impact
- Natural Occurrence: Molybdenum is found in small amounts in soil and water, primarily sourced from minerals like molybdenite.
- Toxicity: While necessary in trace amounts, excessive molybdenum can be toxic to plants and animals.
Molybdenum's unique properties and roles make it significant in both industrial applications and biological systems.