lítiumatom

The lithium atom is the third element in the periodic table, with the chemical symbol Li and atomic number 3. It is the lightest metal and the least dense solid element. A neutral lithium atom consists of three protons and three electrons. Its electron configuration is 1s²2s¹, meaning it has two electrons in its inner shell and one electron in its outermost shell. This single valence electron makes lithium highly reactive, readily giving it up to form a positively charged ion, Li⁺.

Lithium is an alkali metal, belonging to Group 1 of the periodic table. In its elemental form, it is a soft, silvery-white metal that tarnishes rapidly in air. It is soft enough to be cut with a knife and can be handled with tongs. Lithium reacts vigorously with water, producing hydrogen gas and lithium hydroxide, and can ignite spontaneously. Due to its high reactivity, elemental lithium is typically stored under mineral oil or kerosene to prevent reaction with air and moisture.

Lithium has two stable isotopes: lithium-6 and lithium-7. Lithium-7 is the most abundant. The element is found in various minerals, such as spodumene and petalite, and is also extracted from brines. Its most significant modern application is in rechargeable batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries, which are essential for portable electronics and electric vehicles. Other uses include in alloys, ceramics, and certain medications.