Lithium (Li)
Lithium (Li)
Discovered in 1817, lithium is the lightest of all metals. It does not occur freely in nature and is found (combined) in all igneous rocks, mineral springs, and the minerals lepidolite, spodumene, petalite, and amblygonite.
Lithium is silvery in appearance, like other alkali metals. It reacts with water, imparts a crimson color to flame, and burns a dazzling white. It is corrosive and must be handled carefully.
Useful in heat transfer and nuclear applications, lithium has been used in alloys and for organic compound synthesis. It can also be used as a battery anode material and in glasses and ceramics.