Skip to content
42Mo

Element 42

Molybdenum

Transition metals

Molybdenum is a chemical element with symbol Mo and atomic number 42.

Key data

Atomic number
42
Atomic mass
95.951 u
Group / Period
6 / 5
Block
d-block
Phase at STP
Solid
Density
10.28 g/cm³
Melting point
2622.8 °C
Boiling point
4638.9 °C
Electron configuration
[Kr] 4d5 5s1

Common uses

  • High-strength steel
  • Catalysts
  • Plant nutrient

Discovery

Year: 1778

Discovered by: Carl Wilhelm Scheele

Frequently asked questions

What is the atomic number of Molybdenum?

Molybdenum has atomic number 42. Its symbol is Mo and its atomic mass is 95.951 u.

What category of element is Molybdenum?

Molybdenum is classified as transition metals. It sits in group 6, period 5 of the periodic table.

What is Molybdenum used for?

Common uses of Molybdenum include: High-strength steel, Catalysts, Plant nutrient.

When was Molybdenum discovered?

Molybdenum was discovered in 1778 by Carl Wilhelm Scheele.

Play the game

Test your knowledge in The Lab

20-round element ID, cryptic 3-clue guesser, and an interactive periodic table.

Open The Lab →