MoO

MoO is an abbreviation that can refer to more than one subject, depending on the context. In chemistry, it is commonly used to denote molybdenum oxide compounds, especially MoO2 and MoO3. These inorganic oxides consist of molybdenum and oxygen and have several industrial applications. MoO3 is a yellow-brown solid that sublimates near room temperature and is used in catalysts, pigments, and glass and ceramic production. MoO2 is a black, metallic-looking material used as a precursor for other molybdenum compounds and in electronic materials. The oxides can interconvert under redox conditions and are studied for their catalytic and electrochemical properties.

In popular culture, MoO is widely recognized as an abbreviation for Master of Orion, a space-based 4X strategy video game series. The original Master of Orion (1993) and its sequels and reboots center on building interstellar empires through exploration, expansion, technology, and conflict. The title is frequently abbreviated as MoO in gaming communities and reference works, and it has influenced later space strategy games.

While MoO may appear in other specialized domains, these two uses represent the most common references in science and gaming. Each usage has distinct communities and terminology that rely on context to avoid confusion.