noun
- A hard, silvery-gray metallic element used in alloys, superconductors, and nuclear applications.
Usage: Chemistry term; Symbol: Nb; Atomic number: 41
Examples
- Niobium is added to steel to increase its strength and corrosion resistance.
- The element niobium was discovered in 1801 by Charles Hatchett.
- Niobium alloys are used in jet engines and rocket nozzles.
- Superconducting magnets often contain niobium compounds.
- Niobium is relatively rare in the Earth's crust.