What is the atomic number of Lithium?

Lithium has atomic number 3, which means a neutral atom has 3 protons and 3 electrons.

What is the chemical symbol for Lithium?

The chemical symbol for Lithium is Li.

What category is Lithium in?

Lithium is classified as a alkali metal and sits in period 2 of the periodic table.

Element 3

Lithium (Li)

Lithium is a soft, silvery-white alkali metal. Under standard conditions, it is the lightest metal and the lightest solid element.

Atomic Number

Atomic Mass

6.94 u

Period

Group

Group 1: alkali metals and hydrogen

Phase

solid

Density

0.534 g/cm3

Electron Shells

2, 1

Atomic Structure

Protons: 3. Electrons: 3. Neutrons: Varies by isotope.

Electron configuration: 1s² 2s¹

Why Lithium Matters

Lithium helps connect atomic number 3, alkali metal behavior, period 2 trends, and electron shell structure. Its solid phase, atomic mass of 6.94 u, and electron configuration 1s² 2s¹ make it useful for comparing bonding patterns across the periodic table.

Discovery and Occurrence

Lithium was discovered 1817 by Johan August Arfwedson. Lithium is a soft, silvery-white alkali metal. Under standard conditions, it is the lightest metal and the lightest solid element.

Safety and Handling Context

Lithium is in a highly reactive family. Pure alkali metals can react strongly with water, so demonstrations belong in controlled lab settings.

Related Elements

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the atomic number of Lithium?: Lithium has atomic number 3, which means a neutral atom has 3 protons and 3 electrons.
What is the chemical symbol for Lithium?: The chemical symbol for Lithium is Li.
What category is Lithium in?: Lithium is classified as a alkali metal and sits in period 2 of the periodic table.

Explore Lithium in 3D

Use the interactive table above to rotate atomic models, compare periodic trends, and move from Lithium to neighboring elements without losing your place.