Lithium (Li) possesses a single valence electron. A valence electron is outlined as an electron discovered within the outermost electron shell of an atom and determines the chemical properties of the factor. As a result of lithium is within the first group of the periodic desk, also called the alkali metals, it conforms to the attribute of those parts, which is having one valence electron.
The presence of just one valence electron explains lithium’s excessive reactivity and its tendency to readily lose this electron to kind a optimistic ion (Li+). This attribute is prime to lithium’s position in varied chemical reactions and its purposes, akin to in batteries and prescription drugs. Understanding the valence electron configuration of parts like lithium is essential in predicting their conduct and purposes in varied scientific and technological fields.