niobium

[ nahy-oh-bee-uhm ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a steel-gray metallic element resembling tantalum in its chemical properties; becomes a superconductor below 9 K; used chiefly in alloy steels. : Nb; : 41; : 92.906; : 8.4 at 20°C.

niobium

/ naɪˈəʊbɪəm /

noun

1. a ductile white superconductive metallic element that occurs principally in columbite and tantalite: used in steel alloys. Symbol: Nb; atomic no: 41; atomic wt: 92.90638; valency: 2, 3, or 5; relative density: 8.57; melting pt: 2469±10°C; boiling pt: 4744°C Former namecolumbium

niobium

/ nī-ō′bē-əm /

1. A soft, silvery, ductile metallic element that usually occurs in nature together with the element tantalum. It is used to build nuclear reactors, to make steel alloys, and to allow magnets to conduct electricity with almost no resistance. Atomic number 41; atomic weight 92.906; melting point 2,468°C; boiling point 4,927°C; specific gravity 8.57; valence 2, 3, 5.
2. See Periodic Table

Word History and Origins

Origin of niobium¹

From New Latin, dating back to 1835–45; Niobe, -ium

Word History and Origins

Origin of niobium¹

C19: from New Latin, from Niobe (daughter of Tantalus), so named because it occurred in tantalite

Example Sentences

When it comes to quantum technology, niobium is making a comeback.

From Science Daily

"Tungsten, niobium and tantalum were not as effective in this chemical form," Nyman said.

From Science Daily

The other variant substituted niobium with chromium in the mix.

From Science Daily

The proposed mine’s main product would be niobium that’s used to make steel lighter and stronger.

From Seattle Times

They eventually uncovered deposits containing billions of dollars’ worth of zirconium, niobium, and other elements that are critical in electronics, defense, and renewable energy technologies.

From Science Magazine