Anomalous Properties Of Lithium
Chapter Name : The S- Block Elements |
Sub Topic Code : 102_11_10_04_01 |
Topic Name : Anomalous Properties Of Lithium |
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Sub Topic Name : Points Of Difference Between Lithium And Other Alkali Metals |
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Introduction
• The anomalous behaviour of lithium is due to the: (i) exceptionally small size of its atom and ion, and (ii) high polarizing power • There is increased covalent character of lithium compounds which is responsible for their solubility in organic solvents. • Lithium is much harder. Its m.p. and b.p. are higher than the other alkali metals. Lithium is least reactive but the strongest reducing agent among all the alkali metals. • LiF and Li2O are comparatively much less soluble in water than the corresponding compounds of other alkali metals.
Pre-Requisites:
Atom, compound, element, acids
Activity:
Lithium metal is also used for making Li batteries.
Real Life Question:
What is Lithium used for?
Key Words / FlashCards
| Key Words | Definitions (pref. in our own words) |
|---|---|
| Alkali metals | Group 1 elements. |
Learning aids / Gadgets
| Gadgets | How it can be used |
|---|---|
| Bearings for motor engines | Used to make alloys with lead for bearings for motor engines. |
Real life uses :
• Lithium metal is used to make useful alloys, for example with lead to make ‘white metal’ bearings for motor engines.
Places to visit :
Kitchen.
Practical examples around us
| Examples | Explainations |
|---|---|
| Lithium metal | Used to make alloys with lead for bearings for motor engines. |
What you learn in Theory:
• The anomalous behaviour of lithium is due to the: • (i) exceptionally small size of its atom and ion, and • (ii) high polarizing power • There is increased covalent character of lithium compounds which is responsible for their solubility in organic solvents. • Lithium is much harder. Its m.p. and b.p. are higher than the other alkali metals. • Lithium is least reactive but the strongest reducing agent among all the alkali metals. • LiF and Li2O are comparatively much less soluble in water than the corresponding compounds of other alkali metals.
What you learn in Practice:
Lithium metal is used to make useful alloys, for example with lead to make ‘white metal’ bearings for motor engines.