Molybdenite

Molybdenite is a soft, metallic-gray mineral composed mainly of molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂). It is the chief ore of molybdenum and has a layered crystal structure that makes it useful as a solid lubricant.

Molybdenum disulfide: An inorganic compound of molybdenum and sulfur with formula MoS₂, occurring naturally as molybdenite. It is the principal chemical constituent of molybdenite.
Molybdenum mining: The extraction of molybdenum-bearing ores and recovery of molybdenum products. Molybdenite is the principal ore mined for molybdenum.
Porphyry copper deposit: A large, low-grade ore deposit associated with intrusive igneous rocks and disseminated sulfide minerals. Molybdenite commonly occurs in porphyry systems, sometimes as a copper byproduct.
Galena: A lead sulfide mineral with formula PbS, commonly forming metallic-gray cubic crystals. Its metallic gray color can resemble molybdenite, but its cubic cleavage and much greater density differ.
Molybdenum: A silvery-gray transition metal with symbol Mo and atomic number 42. Molybdenite is the main mineral source of this metal.
Froth flotation: A mineral-processing method that separates hydrophobic particles from water using bubbles and foam. Flotation commonly concentrates molybdenite from crushed ore.
Climax mine: A major molybdenum mine in Colorado, developed in a deposit rich in molybdenite. It is a notable example of a mine whose principal product is molybdenum.
Tungstenite: A rare tungsten disulfide mineral with formula WS₂ and a layered structure. It is chemically and structurally similar to molybdenite but contains tungsten instead of molybdenum.
Hexagonal crystal system: A crystal system characterized by three equal axes in one plane and a fourth axis perpendicular to them. Molybdenite commonly crystallizes in a hexagonal layered arrangement.
Solid lubricant: A material that reduces friction between surfaces without being supplied as a liquid or grease. Molybdenite’s layers slide easily, allowing the mineral to lubricate under demanding conditions.

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