Molybdenum (Mo\text{Mo}Mo) is a transition metal. It is extracted from its ore, often starting with molybdenum disulfide (MoS2\text{MoS}_2MoS2).
Molybdenum disulfide is converted into molybdenum trioxide by heating in air according to the following equation:
2MoS2+7O2→2MoO3+4SO2 2\text{MoS}_2 + 7\text{O}_2 \rightarrow 2\text{MoO}_3 + 4\text{SO}_2 2MoS2+7O2→2MoO3+4SO2Why is molybdenum said to be oxidised in this reaction?
The sulfur dioxide (SO2\text{SO}_2SO2) formed can be further oxidised in the atmosphere to sulfur trioxide (SO3\text{SO}_3SO3). This sulfur trioxide then reacts with rainwater to form sulfuric acid (H2SO4\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4H2SO4), which contributes to acid rain. Write a balanced chemical equation for the reaction between sulfur trioxide and water.
The table below shows the melting points of molybdenum trioxide and sulfur trioxide:
| Compound | Melting point (∘C^{\circ}\text{C}∘C) |
|---|---|
| Molybdenum trioxide | 795795795 |
| Sulfur trioxide | 171717 |
What is the type of bonding in a molecule of sulfur trioxide?
Explain, in terms of structure and bonding, why the melting point of sulfur trioxide is relatively low.
While molybdenum trioxide has a giant structure, under certain conditions it can form gaseous molecular trimers. Deduce the molecular formula of the molybdenum oxide trimer shown in the diagram below:
The metallic structure of molybdenum gives it typical metallic properties. Describe the structure and bonding in metallic molybdenum.
Explain why molybdenum is a good conductor of electricity.
Explain why molybdenum is malleable.
