Lithium is an extremely soft, silvery-gray metallic element, identified by the symbol Li on the periodic table of elements. The metal is used in a range of industries, typically in the form of alloys and compounds, since it is extremely reactive. Consumers may also be familiar with its salts, which are used as mood altering drugs.
The reasonably abundant element was discovered in the early 1800s, although it took the work of several chemists to untangle its complexities. It has an atomic number of 3, making it the lightest solid element, and the head of the alkaline metal group. Like other metals in this group, lithium is very reactive in a pure form, and it needs to be handled carefully. The pure metal is not found in nature, since it combines readily with other elements to form compounds.
The element was originally called lithion, derived from the Greek lithos for "stone." As the name would suggest, it's often found in rocks, and the bulk of extraction uses igneous rocks as a source. It does not appear to have an important role biologically, although it may be necessary in the form of a trace element. In larger amounts, lithium can be toxic for humans, especially if it has been allowed to oxidize and form a caustic tarnish. Typically, it is stored in oil or another nonreactive material to retard corrosion.
The metal has a very high specific heat, meaning that it melts slowly and will hold high temperatures. It is often used as a heat transfer medium, and it is found in alloys, glass, and ceramics. The light weight makes it a popular choice in batteries, since it also has a high electrochemical potential, meaning that the metal can store energy. Among many other uses, the element can act as an air purifier, trapping carbon dioxide in enclosed environments like aircraft and submarines.
The pure metal is not used pharmacologically. Rather, the salts of the metal are, particularly lithium carbonate, which was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1970. Salts of the metal appear to be effective in correcting imbalances in the brain that lead to mood disorders. It acts on the neurotransmitters of the brain, and may also be used in the treatment of severe headaches. Since it is potentially dangerous in large amounts, medical professionals usually monitor blood levels throughout treatment to ensure that patients stay healthy.
By Mary McMahon
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a All The Science researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.