Final answer:
Lithium is an element with widespread use in rechargeable batteries due to its properties such as high voltage, ability to deliver large currents, and low discharge rate. Lithium toxicity is an important consideration for medical use, necessitating monitoring of blood levels. The expected outcome for lithium use varies from medical stabilization of mood to providing long-lasting power in electronics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Important Information about Lithium
Lithium (Li) is a chemical element with an atomic number of 3, which means it has three electrons. Two electrons occupy the first energy level and the third electron is in the second energy level. When it comes to lithium batteries, which are among the most popular rechargeable batteries, they have high utility due to their approximately 3.7 V battery voltage, capability to deliver a large amount of current, and their lightweight compared to batteries of other types. They also maintain a nearly constant voltage during discharge and only slowly lose charge when not in use. Lithium toxicity is a critical factor to consider when lithium is used therapeutically, such as in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Symptoms of toxicity may include nausea, tremors, and confusion, and it can be fatal in extreme cases. Lithium levels are monitored to maintain a therapeutic range, typically between 0.6 to 1.2 mEq/L, as levels above this range can lead to toxicity. Contraindications for lithium therapy include certain kidney and heart conditions, dehydration, and sodium depletion, among others. The expected outcome for the use of lithium in medical treatments is stabilization of mood in conditions like bipolar disorder. In the context of lithium-ion batteries, the expected outcome is a long-lasting and stable power source for various electronic devices, leading to their widespread use in this capacity. The R/P ratio for lithium use in batteries is 500 years, indicating a significant reserve in relation to current production level