Lithium chloride

Lithium chloride is a chemical compound with the formula LiCl. It is a white crystalline solid, highly soluble in water, and is used in various applications in the fields of chemistry, medicine, and industry.

Chemical properties[edit | edit source]

Lithium chloride is a typical ionic compound, being formed from the metal lithium and the halogen chlorine. It has a high melting point of 605°C and a boiling point of 1360°C. It is highly soluble in water, with a solubility of 74.5 g/100 mL at 20°C.

Production[edit | edit source]

Lithium chloride is produced industrially by treating lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide with hydrochloric acid, which results in the formation of lithium chloride and water.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Lithium chloride has a variety of uses in different fields. In chemistry, it is used as a desiccant for drying air streams. In medicine, it is used as a treatment for bipolar disorder. In industry, it is used in the production of lithium metal, and in the manufacture of welding and brazing fluxes.

Health effects[edit | edit source]

Exposure to lithium chloride can cause irritation to the skin and eyes. Ingestion can lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Long-term exposure can lead to kidney damage.