ScienceAugust 20, 2026

molybdenum

muh-LIB-duh-num

Definition

A silvery-white, heavy metallic chemical element often analyzed in scientific research to understand the life cycles of stars.

Etymology

The name is derived from the Greek word 'molybdaina,' meaning 'piece of lead,' because it was historically confused with lead ores due to its similar appearance.

In the news

The article mentions molybdenum as one of the heavier elements measured by mass spectrometry to help identify the type of star that produced specific presolar grains.

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