L

Lithium

IUPAC: Lithium

Li Elements CAS 7439-93-2
Quick Reference
Formula / NotationLi
CAS Number7439-93-2
Molecular Weight6.94
Melting Point180.5
Boiling Point1342.0
Density0.534
SolubilityInsoluble in water (reacts)
AppearanceSoft silvery-white metal, tarnishes to grey
Also Known AsLi, lithium metal
CategoryElements

What is Lithium?

Lithium is the lightest metal and least dense solid element, atomic number 3. A soft, silvery-white alkali metal that reacts vigorously with water and tarnishes in air.

Formula & Notation

Li

IUPAC Name: Lithium

Other Names / Synonyms: Li, lithium metal

Properties & Characteristics

Atomic number: 3. Atomic mass: 6.941 g/mol. Period 2, Group 1. Melting point: 180.5 C. Boiling point: 1342 C. Density: 0.534 g/cm3. Electronegativity: 0.98. Config: [He] 2s1. Isotopes: Li-6 (7.5%), Li-7 (92.5%).

Physical Data

PropertyValue
Melting Point180.5
Boiling Point1342.0
Density0.534
Molecular Weight6.94
SolubilityInsoluble in water (reacts)
AppearanceSoft silvery-white metal, tarnishes to grey

Uses & Applications

Lithium-ion batteries (EVs, phones, laptops). Psychiatric medication (lithium carbonate for bipolar disorder). Lubricating greases. Aerospace alloys (Li-Al). Ceramics and glass. Air purification. Nuclear fusion fuel (Li-6).

Safety Information

Reacts vigorously with water producing H2 fire hazard. Store under mineral oil. Skin/eye irritant. Lithium fires: use dry sand, never water. Battery thermal runaway hazard.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Lithium
Formula Li
CAS Number 7439-93-2
Molecular Weight 6.94
Category Elements
Synonyms Li, lithium metal

Frequently Asked Questions

Lithium is the lightest metal and least dense solid element, atomic number 3. A soft, silvery-white alkali metal that reacts vigorously with water and tarnishes in air.

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