Explain What is Lithium ?

Atomic Number - 3

Symbol - Li

Name - Lithium

Atomic Mass - 6.9

Group Name - Alkali Metals



Lithium ("stone") is a chemical element with 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.

Like all alkali metals, lithium is highly reactive and flammable, and is stored in mineral oil. When cut open, it exhibits a metallic luster, but moist air corrodes it quickly to a dull silvery gray, then black tarnish.

It never occurs freely in nature, but only in (usually ionic) compounds, such as pegmatitic minerals which were once the main source of lithium.

Due to its solubility as an ion, it is present in ocean water and is commonly obtained from brines.

Lithium metal is isolated electrolytically from a mixture of lithium chloride and potassium chloride.

Like the other alkali metals, lithium has a single valence electron that is easily given up to form a cation. Because of this, lithium is a good conductor of heat and electricity as well as a highly reactive element, though it is the least reactive of the alkali metals.

Lithium reacts with water easily, but with noticeably less vigor than other alkali metals. The reaction forms hydrogen gas and lithium hydroxide in aqueous solution. Because of its reactivity with water, lithium is usually stored in a hydrocarbon sealant, often petroleum jelly.


What is a brand name for Lithium?


Answer: Lithobid

What drug classification does Lithium fall under?


Answer: Antipsychotic

What conditions is lithium used to treat?


Answer: Bipolar disorder and mania

What are the potential side-effects of taking Lithium?


Answer: Light-headedness, shortness of breath, increased urination, uncontrolled muscle movements, increased intracranial pressure.

Interesting fact about Lithium - People taking lithium are more vulnerable to dehydration, especially if they are sick, exerting themselves more than normal, or outdoors in hot climates.


Learn More :