The chemical symbol for tungsten is W. This symbol originates from the element's historical name, wolfram, derived from the mineral wolframite from which tungsten was first extracted. Tungsten is a dense metal known for its high melting point and remarkable strength. It is widely used in various applications, including the manufacturing of light bulb filaments, cutting tools, and military applications. The use of tungsten in modern technology reflects its significant role in industrial processes where durability and heat resistance are critical.