Molybdenite is the primary ore of molybdenum metal, which is an extremely important metal for making specialty alloys. Small amounts of molybdenum added to steel and other alloys can significantly increase their toughness, heat resistance, hardness, strength, and resistance to corrosion.

Molybdenum is an important ingredient in making stainless steel, alloy steels, and a variety of superalloys. Molybdenum metal is also used in some electronic devices and to make heating elements used in high-temperature electric furnaces.