Lithium’s oxidation states indicate the number of electrons gained or lost in chemical reactions. Lithium typically exhibits an oxidation state of +1, resulting from the loss of its valence electron. This oxidation state is stable due to lithium’s low electronegativity and small ionic radius. In certain compounds, such as lithium hydride, lithium can also exhibit an oxidation state of -1, indicating its ability to gain an electron. The electronic structure of lithium plays a crucial role in determining its oxidation states, with the valence electron being easily lost or gained during chemical reactions.
