How Many Electrons in Li⁺?
Lithium (Li) is an alkali metal with atomic number 3. This means a neutral lithium atom possesses 3 protons in its nucleus and 3 electrons orbiting that nucleus to balance the positive charge. However, the question asks about Li⁺, which is a lithium ion. The "+" symbol indicates a positive charge, meaning the atom has lost an electron.
Therefore, Li⁺ has 2 electrons. It has lost one of its original three electrons, resulting in a net positive charge.
What is the electron configuration of Li⁺?
The electron configuration of a neutral lithium atom is 1s²2s¹. This means it has two electrons in the 1s orbital and one electron in the 2s orbital. When lithium loses an electron to become Li⁺, it loses the electron from its outermost shell (the 2s orbital). Thus, the electron configuration of Li⁺ is 1s².
How is Li⁺ formed?
Li⁺ is formed when a lithium atom loses one electron. This typically occurs through an ionic bond, where lithium readily donates its single valence electron to another atom (often a non-metal like chlorine or oxygen) to achieve a stable, full outer electron shell. This process is driven by the desire to achieve a lower energy state, leading to a more stable configuration.
What are the properties of Li⁺?
Because it has lost an electron, Li⁺ is a positively charged ion (cation). This drastically alters its properties compared to neutral lithium. It's highly reactive and readily forms ionic compounds with negatively charged ions (anions). Its smaller size compared to neutral lithium also affects its chemical behavior.
What are some common compounds containing Li⁺?
Lithium ions are found in numerous compounds crucial in various applications. Some common examples include lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃), used in the treatment of bipolar disorder, and lithium-ion batteries, where Li⁺ plays a critical role in energy storage.
Understanding the electron configuration and properties of Li⁺ is fundamental to comprehending its behavior in chemical reactions and its importance in various applications.
