lithium

The definition of lithium is an alkali metal with the lowest density of any solid element.

Facts About Lithium

• Its atomic number is 3 and its symbol is Li.
• Its name comes from the Greek word "lithos" which means "stone."
• Lithium is a silvery white colored metal that is very soft.
• Its density is half that of water, it is corrosive, and it is very flammable.
• It is not found free in nature but is found in igneous rocks, in water from mineral springs, and in seawater or brine. Traces of lithium are also found in plants, plankton, invertebrates and vertebrates.
• It is strong and lightweight.
• It is a good conductor of heat and electricity.
• The first man-made nuclear fusion reaction used the transmutation of lithium to tritium. Basically, that is heating the element until the nuclei are forced to fuse.
• 2,500 metric tons of lithium were used in the U.S. 21% were used for glass and ceramics. 20% of the use is in batteries.
• Lithium makes concrete harden more rapidly, kills algae, and absorbs carbon dioxide in space craft.
• Lithium hydride makes life boats inflate and lithium deuteride is a necessary component in the explosion of hydrogen bombs.