molybdenum

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   the hard, silvery chemical element with symbol Mo and atomic number 42, used especially to strengthen steel alloys

   Adding molybdenum can improve an alloy's strength and resistance to high temperatures.

From New Latin molybdaenum, based on Greek molybdaina ("a lead-like substance") and molybdos ("lead"). Graphite and molybdenite were once confused with lead ores; the element retained that older mineral name after they were distinguished.

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