Lithium

Lithium (Li) is an alkali metal, a member of a family of soft, reactive metals. This silvery-white element has the lowest density of any metal at room temperature. It reacts readily with its surroundings, so it occurs naturally in compounds rather than as pure metal. Important sources include the mineral spodumene and brines, waters rich in dissolved salts. Producers process mined ores or concentrate brines to recover lithium compounds; pure lithium metal is made using electricity to break down molten salts containing lithium chloride. Lithium-containing materials are essential to rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in portable electronics and electric cars. Its compounds also help make heat-resistant glass and ceramics.