What is the substance?

---

Overview

Lithium is a chemical element with the symbol Li and atomic number 3. It is a soft, silvery-white alkali metal. Under standard conditions, it is the lightest metal and the lightest solid element. Lithium is highly reactive and flammable, and must be stored in mineral oil.

Key Properties

• Atomic Number: 3
• Atomic Weight: 6.94 u
• Density: 0.534 g/cm³ (remarkably low)
• Melting Point: 180.54 °C
• Boiling Point: 1342 °C
• Electron Configuration: [He] 2s¹
• Reactivity: Highly reactive, readily loses its single valence electron.

Occurrence and Production

Lithium is not found in nature in its elemental form due to its high reactivity. It occurs in various minerals, brine deposits, and clay minerals. Major lithium-producing countries include Australia, Chile, and Argentina. Lithium is extracted from these sources through various processes, including evaporation of brine and mining of lithium-containing minerals.

Uses

• Batteries: Lithium is a crucial component of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/lithium-ion%20batteries">lithium-ion batteries</a>, which power many portable electronic devices, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems.
• Greases: <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Lithium%20grease">Lithium grease</a> is a lubricant used in various industries due to its high-temperature performance and water resistance.
• Ceramics and Glass: Lithium compounds are added to ceramics and glass to improve their strength, heat resistance, and other properties.
• Aluminum Production: Lithium is used as an additive in aluminum production to improve its properties.
• Medicine: Lithium carbonate is used as a mood stabilizer in the treatment of <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/bipolar%20disorder">bipolar disorder</a>.

Compounds

Lithium forms a variety of compounds, including:

• Lithium Carbonate (Li₂CO₃): Used in the treatment of bipolar disorder.
• Lithium Chloride (LiCl): A hygroscopic salt used in desiccants and as a brazing flux.
• Lithium Hydroxide (LiOH): Used in the production of lithium greases.

Safety

Lithium is a reactive metal and can react violently with water and air. It should be handled with care. Lithium compounds can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.

---