Molybdenite is a mineral composed primarily of molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂). It typically appears as a metallic gray or silver-colored mineral and is often found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Molybdenite is the primary ore of molybdenum, a metal used in various industrial applications, including steel production and electrical contacts. This mineral has a layered structure, which allows it to be easily cleaved into thin sheets. Molybdenite is often associated with other minerals such as copper and tungsten, and its presence can indicate the potential for molybdenum deposits in mining exploration.