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Lithium Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lithium

[ˈlɪθiəm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

chemical element

Lithium is a soft, silvery-white alkali metal with the symbol 'Li' and atomic number 3. It is the lightest metal and the least dense solid element under standard conditions. Lithium is primarily used in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries for mobile phones, laptops, and electric vehicles.

Synonyms

Li, alkali metal.

Examples of usage

  • Many smartphones use lithium batteries.
  • Lithium is crucial for electric vehicle technology.
  • The demand for lithium has surged due to renewable energy storage.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • It's the lightest metal and the least dense solid element; it can even float on water!
  • Lithium-ion batteries have revolutionized technology, powering everything from smartphones to electric cars.

Health

  • Prescribed primarily for bipolar disorder, lithium can help stabilize mood swings and improve overall mental health.
  • It works by changing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, allowing individuals to manage their emotions better.

Pop Culture

  • The band Nirvana has a song titled 'Lithium' that talks about dealing with feelings of numbness and emotional highs and lows.
  • In movies, it often represents a way to manage or escape from deep emotions, sometimes depicted in a dramatic or oversimplified way.

Technology

  • Lithium batteries are known for their high energy density, making them essential in modern portable electronics.
  • Research continues into lithium's role in sustainable energy, particularly in the context of renewable technologies.

Origin of 'lithium'

Main points about word origin

  • The name comes from the Greek word 'lithos', which means 'stone', reflecting its early discovery in minerals.
  • Lithium was first isolated from a mineral called petalite in 1817 by a Swedish chemist named Johan August Arfwedson.

The term 'lithium' originates from the Greek word 'lithos,' which means 'stone.' It was first discovered in 1817 by Swedish chemist Johan August Arfwedson while he was analyzing petalite ore. Later, it was isolated in 1821 by William Thomas Brande, and in 1855, chemist A. J. Berzelius produced pure lithium. Its unique properties, such as low density and high electrochemical potential, draw significant interest for various technological applications, especially in batteries. Lithium became increasingly important in the late 20th century, especially with the rise of portable electronics and renewable energy solutions.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,873 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.