What element has the symbol 'Nb'?

The story behind the answer

Niobium is the element with the symbol Nb. It’s not a noble gas, “Neobium” is a common misspelling, and “Nithium” isn’t an element. The “Nb” comes straight from Niobium’s name.

Context tip: Niobium (atomic number 41) was named after Niobe, daughter of Tantalus in Greek myth—fitting because niobium and tantalum occur together and have very similar chemistry. Niobium is prized for strengthening steel in pipelines and aircraft, and for superconducting magnets (Nb-Ti) used in MRI machines.

Memory hook: NioBium has a prominent “B,” so its symbol is N‑b. Also think “Niobe next to Tantalus”—Nb sits near Ta on the periodic table, reflecting their mythological pairing and chemical kinship.