Periodic Table
3
Li
6.94
Lithium
Alkali MetalLightest metal; shows diagonal relationship with Mg.
Electronic Configuration
1s² 2s¹or1s² 2s¹
Electron shells
2e⁻n=1
1e⁻n=2
Properties
Atomic number
3
Atomic mass
6.94 u
Category
Alkali Metal
Block / Group / Period
s · 1 · 2
Valence electrons
1
Oxidation states
+1
Electronegativity
0.98
Atomic radius
167 pm
Ionization energy
520 kJ/mol
Electron affinity
60 kJ/mol
Melting point
454 K / 181 °C
Boiling point
1615 K / 1342 °C
Density
0.534 g/cm³
State at 25 °C
solid
JEE / NEET notes
- Diagonal relationship with Mg.
- Only alkali metal forming nitride Li₃N directly with N₂.
- LiF & Li₂CO₃ are sparingly soluble (small size, high lattice energy).
- Forms mainly monoxide Li₂O (others form peroxides/superoxides).
- Most negative E° (−3.04 V) due to high hydration energy.
Exceptions
- • Anomalous behaviour due to very small size & high polarising power.
Flame test
Crimson red
Ores & extraction
Ores: Spodumene (LiAlSi₂O₆), Lepidolite
Uses
Li-ion batteries · Lithium grease · Mood-stabilising drugs
Important compounds
Li₂CO₃LiAlH₄LiF
Personal Notes
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