Lithium

Lithium

is the least dense solid element and the least dense metal under normal circumstances. Since lithium is extremely reactive and combustible, like all alkali metals, it must be stored in an inert atmosphere, an inert liquid, or a purified kerosene or mineral oil.

It has a shiny, metallic appearance. It tarnishes swiftly in the air, turning to a dull silvery grey before turning black. It is not found naturally; instead, it is mostly found in pegmatitic minerals, which were formerly the primary source of lithium.

Owing to its ionic solubility, it can be found in ocean water and is typically extracted from brines. Electrolysis is used to separate lithium metal from a solution containing potassium and lithium chloride.

Numerous industrial applications exist for lithium and its compounds, such as lithium-ion batteries, lithium metal batteries, flux additives for the manufacturing of iron, steel, and aluminium, heat-resistant glass and ceramics, and lithium grease lubricants. More than three quarters of the lithium produced is used for these purposes.