What is Lithium? | Types, Definition, Structure, Function & Facts

What is Lithium?

Lithium is part of the alkali metal group and is found in the first column of the periodic table just below hydrogen. Like all alkali metals, it has a single valence electron which it readily gives up to form cations or compounds.

Highlights of Lithium:

Characteristics and Properties

At room temperature lithium is a soft metal that is silvery-white in color. It is the least dense of the solid elements and is the lightest of all the metals. It has the highest specific heat capacity of any solid element.

Lithium is very reactive and flammable. It needs to be stored in mineral oil as it will react with air or water. It can cause burns if it comes into contact with the skin.

Lithium’s single valence electron allows it to be a good conductor of electricity. It is flammable and can even explode when exposed to air and water. However, it is less reactive and explosive than the other alkali metals.

Where is Lithium found on Earth?

Because it is so reactive, lithium is not found in its pure form in nature. However, it is found around the world in a variety of places, including seawater, mineral springs, and flints.

How is Lithium used today?

Lithium is used in many applications. Lithium batteries are probably the type of battery you are most familiar with. About 27% of the lithium used for industry is used in batteries. Another major application is the production of ceramics and glass. Other uses include greases, high-performance aircraft materials, and antidepressants.

How was it discovered?

Lithium was first discovered as an element by the Swedish chemist Johann August Arfvedson in 1817 while he was analyzing Petalite ore. It was isolated in pure form a year later by British chemist Humphry Davy.

Where did lithium get its name?

Lithium comes from the Greek word “lithos” which means “stone” or “stone”. It was named by Johann Arfvedson (who also discovered it).

Isotopes

Lithium has seven isotopes, two of which are stable. When lithium occurs naturally, it occurs as a mixture of two stable isotopes.

Interesting Facts about Lithium

Although it is metal, it is soft enough to cut with a knife. It is so light that it can float on water.

Lithium fires are difficult to extinguish. You cannot use water as the water will react with the lithium and may aggravate the fire. A powder fire extinguisher is required.

Along with hydrogen and helium, lithium is one of three elements created in large quantities after the Big Bang. When burned, lithium gives off a bright red flame.

Because it is the lightest metal, it can be alloyed with other metals such as aluminum and copper to create a light and strong metal.

Lithium hydroxide can be used to clean the air and remove carbon dioxide in spacecraft and submarines.