Converters & Calculators
Lithium: Element Properties And Uses
Description
Lithium is a soft, silvery‑white metal that exhibits defined chemical and physical properties. It is utilised in various industrial sectors, particularly in battery technology.
Introduction to the Element
Lithium is a chemical element with the symbol Li and atomic number 3. It belongs to the group of alkali metals and is the lightest metal in the periodic table. Lithium was discovered in 1817 by Johan August Arfvedson, and its properties have led to widespread use in many industries, especially for energy storage.
Description of Chemical Properties
Lithium exhibits several key chemical properties:
- Reactivity: Lithium reacts with water to form lithium hydroxide (LiOH) and hydrogen gas.
- Alkaline Nature: As an alkali metal, lithium readily loses its single outer electron, thereby forming a Li+ ion in many chemical reactions.
- Flammability: In its metallic form, lithium burns with a red flame and is easily ignited.
- Compounds: Lithium compounds such as lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) and lithium chloride (LiCl) are used in battery production and in pharmaceutical treatments for mood stabilisation.
Table of Physical Properties
|
Property |
Value |
|
Atomic Number |
3 |
|
Atomic Mass |
6,94 g/mol |
|
Melting Point |
180.54 °C |
|
Boiling Point |
1590 °C |
|
Density |
0,534 g/cm³ |
|
Appearance |
Silvery‑white metal |
|
Hardness |
Soft |
|
Electrical Conductivity |
High |
|
Thermal Conductivity |
High |
Further information is available at Stanford Advanced Materials (SAM).
Common Applications
Lithium is utilised in several important industries:
- Batteries: Lithium‑ion and lithium‑polymer batteries are used in consumer electronic devices, electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems.
- Alloys: Lithium is incorporated into lightweight metal alloys in the aerospace industry to reduce weight while retaining strength.
- Medical Uses: Lithium compounds such as lithium carbonate are employed in the treatment of bipolar disorders and other mood conditions.
- Heat‑resistant Glass: Lithium is added to glass and ceramics to improve resistance to heat and thermal shock.
- Greases: Lithium‑based greases are used in industrial settings that involve high temperatures and pressures.
Extraction Methods
Lithium is mainly obtained through two methods:
- Electrolysis of Lithium Salts: Lithium metal is produced by electrolysing lithium salts such as lithium chloride (LiCl) or lithium fluoride (LiF).
- Mining: Lithium is also extracted from mineral sources such as Spodumene, which is processed to yield lithium compounds.
Related Industrial Products
Several industrial products are associated with lithium and its compounds:
- Lithium Batteries: These batteries are used in modern electronics and electric vehicles.
- Lithium Carbonate: This compound is a key component in the production of rechargeable batteries and is used in the treatment of bipolar disorders.
- Lithium Hydroxide: It is utilised in the manufacture of greases and in battery production.
- Lithium Chloride: This compound finds use in industrial applications such as air‑conditioning systems and as a drying agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary applications of lithium?
Lithium is primarily used in rechargeable batteries, metal alloys, greases and for medical purposes, such as the treatment of bipolar disorders.
How is lithium extracted?
Lithium is produced by electrolysing lithium salts or extracted from minerals such as spodumene, which is processed to obtain lithium compounds.
What are the physical properties of lithium?
Lithium is a soft, silvery‑white metal with high electrical and thermal conductivity. It has a melting point of 180.54 °C and a boiling point of 1590 °C.
Is lithium reactive?
Yes, lithium is highly reactive. It reacts with water to form lithium hydroxide and hydrogen gas.
What are lithium‑ion batteries used for?
Lithium‑ion batteries are used in various devices, including smartphones, laptops, electric vehicles and energy storage systems for renewable energy.
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