What is Li2CO3? Important knowledge about Li2CO3

1. Definition of Li₂CO₃

Li₂CO₃, also known as Lithium Carbonate, is a white, odorless solid that is not completely soluble in water. It is a salt of lithium and carbonic acid, consisting of two lithium ions and one carbonate ion. Its molecular structure consists of 2 lithium atoms, one carbon atom, and three oxygen atoms. The molar mass of Li₂CO₃ is 73.89 g/mol. Meanwhile, the ion structure of Li₂CO₃ consists of 2 lithium ions (Li+) and one carbonate ion (CO₃^2-).

2. Properties of Li₂CO₃

Li₂CO₃ is a white, odorless solid that is not completely soluble in water, with a pH value of around 11 when mixed with water. The chemical properties of Li₂CO₃ are quite complex and varied, but essentially it can react with acids to form a salt, water, and CO₂ gas.

3. Common chemical equations of Li₂CO₃

Li₂CO₃ can react with HCl acid to form LiCl salt, water, and CO₂ gas:

Li₂CO₃ + 2HCl -> 2LiCl + H₂O + CO₂↑

Li₂CO₃ can also react with H₂SO₄ acid to form Li₂SO₄ salt, water, and CO₂ gas:

Li₂CO₃ + H₂SO₄ -> Li₂SO₄ + H₂O + CO₂↑

4. Preparation of Li₂CO₃

In the laboratory, Li₂CO₃ can be prepared from the reaction of a lithium hydroxide solution with CO₂ gas.

2LiOH + CO₂ -> Li₂CO₃ + H₂O.

In industry, Li₂CO₃ is typically produced from spodumene ore, a lithium-containing mineral, through a series of complex processes.