Lithium is classed as a rare light metal and its applications are numerous. It is one of the lightest of all elements, with an atomic mass of about 6.941 grams per mole. It has the highest electrochemical potential of any of the elements, meaning it can be used in batteries to store energy and power devices that require high current output in a very small form factor.
In its pure form, it is a silver-white, pale silvery metal that is soft and ductile and easily bent and cut. It is the least dense of all metals and also has the lowest boiling point. This can be attributed to its low atomic weight, which is the lightest of all elements in the periodic table.
It is a relatively abundant element and can be found in natural sources such as pegmatites and in seawater. It is also found commercially, in a variety of forms, such as lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide.
In modern times, lithium is used in a variety of industrial and consumer applications. It is used in batteries, alloys, and other materials. It has a variety of medical and industrial uses, such as in the production of pharmaceuticals, ceramics and electronic devices.
The high reactivity of lithium with oxygen makes it an ideal choice for use in primary cells, such as those used in mobile phones and other portable electronics. In these cells, the lithium-ion battery chemistry is used to store energy within the battery, which is then extracted when needed to power the device.
It is also used in a variety of medical applications, such as in the treatment of bipolar disorder or schizophrenia due to its stabilising effect on mood and behaviour. This is achieved by controlling the levels of dopamine and other neurotransmitters in the brain.
Other applications for lithium include its use in glass and ceramics, electronic components and even the manufacture of aircraft. The metal has a low melting point and is resistant to corrosion, making it an ideal choice for aircraft manufacturing.
In recent years, lithium has been increasingly in demand by the electric vehicle industry due to its ability to store and release significant amounts of energy in a short time. Additionally, its relatively low weight allows for as much as double the amount of energy per gram as other traditional fuels and therefore allows for higher performance in electric vehicles.
Lithium is an important element in modern industry and will likely continue to be in the future. Its wide variety of applications, high reactivity and light weight make it an ideal choice for those looking to make the most of limited resources in a wide range of products and applications. Its importance is certain to remain as modern technology and industries continue to demand greater performance and efficiency from the materials they use.
