What is the Difference Between Molybdenum and Tungsten?

Molybdenum and tungsten are both heavy metals with similar properties, but they have some key differences that affect their applications and suitability for specific use cases. Here are the main differences between molybdenum and tungsten:

1. Melting Point and Density: Molybdenum has a lower melting point (2,623°C) and density (10.2 g/cm³) compared to tungsten, which has a higher melting point (3,422°C) and density (19.3 g/cm³).
2. Oxidation Resistance: Tungsten is more resistant to oxidation than molybdenum.
3. Thermal Conductivity: Molybdenum has a lower coefficient of thermal expansion and higher thermal conductivity than tungsten, making it ideal for use in semiconductor base plates, industrial motors, aerospace, and defense applications.
4. Corrosion and Wear Resistance: Both metals are highly resistant to corrosion and wear, but molybdenum is often used in steel alloys to improve their strength, electrical conductivity, and resistance to corrosion and wear.
5. Applications: Due to its high density, strength, and exceptional corrosion resistance, tungsten is commonly used in industrial motors, electronic and electrical components, and military and defense industries. Molybdenum, on the other hand, is used in aerospace, industrial motor, military/defense, electrical/electronic applications, and more, due to its excellent strength and low coefficient of thermal expansion.

In summary, molybdenum and tungsten are both heavy metals with excellent properties, but their differences in melting point, density, oxidation resistance, thermal conductivity, and applications make them suitable for different use cases. The choice between molybdenum and tungsten depends on the specific requirements of the application and the desired properties of the material.

Comparative Table: Molybdenum vs Tungsten

Here is a table comparing the differences between molybdenum and tungsten:

Molybdenum and tungsten are both d-block transition metals in group 6 of the periodic table of elements. They share similar properties, but there are key differences between them. Molybdenum has a lower melting point, density, and atomic number compared to tungsten. Tungsten is more resistant to oxidation than molybdenum. Both metals are highly resistant to heat and have very high melting points relative to common metals. They are used in various applications, such as semiconductor base plates, industrial motors, aerospace, and defense applications.