A chemical element with the symbol Li and atomic number 3. It is a very light alkali metal used mainly for making rechargeable batteries and in medicine.
example
Für die Akkus von modernen Elektroautos wird eine große Menge Lithium benötigt.
A large amount of lithium is needed for the batteries of modern electric cars.
Usage tips
Use as a substance name
As the name of a chemical element, 'Lithium' (lithium) is a substance name, an uncountable noun. Therefore, it is generally used without an article unless you are talking about a very specific amount.
EXAMPLE
In diesem Gestein kommt Lithium in hoher Konzentration vor.
Lithium occurs in high concentrations in this rock.
Typical context
You mostly hear or read the word 'Lithium' (lithium) in technical or scientific contexts. The most common topics are rechargeable batteries, batteries, electric mobility, and sometimes medicine as well, especially psychotropic drugs.
EXAMPLE
Die Forschung arbeitet an neuen Batterien mit weniger Lithium.
Research is working on new batteries with less lithium.
Typical collocations
Common verbs used in connection with lithium are 'Lithium abbauen' (to mine lithium), 'Lithium gewinnen' (to extract lithium), and 'Lithium recyceln' (to recycle lithium).