Overview
Lithium is a soft, silvery metal in group 1 with high electrochemical potential and low density.
Properties
It reacts vigorously with water, has a low melting point for a metal and excellent ionic conductivity in salts.
Occurrence and Uses
Extracted from brines and minerals, lithium is critical for rechargeable batteries and used in mood stabilizing medications.
Isotopes and Safety
Stable isotopes Li 6 and Li 7 exist; metallic lithium is highly reactive and must be stored under inert conditions to prevent fires.