Homonym: columbium (Niobium)
Columbium, also known as niobium, is a chemical element with the symbol Nb and atomic number 41. It is a soft, gray metal that is primarily used in the production of high-strength steel and superconducting materials. Columbium is valued for its ability to enhance the strength and resistance of alloys, making it important in various industrial applications.
Discovered in the late 18th century, columbium was initially named after Columbia, a historical name for the United States. The name was later changed to niobium, but columbium is still used in some contexts, particularly in metallurgy. Its unique properties make it essential in aerospace, electronics, and other advanced technologies.