methyllithium

chemical compound

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June 30, 2026

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Methyllithium (LiCH₃) is an organometallic compound used in organic synthesis. It is formed by reacting lithium metal with a halogen-substituted hydrocarbon, such as methyl chloride (CH₃Cl). As an organolithium compound, the lithium atom is directly bonded to a carbon atom, distinguishing it from ionic lithium compounds. Organolithium compounds, like methyllithium, are highly reactive and valuable in chemical synthesis. Lithium itself is the lightest solid element and an alkali metal, found in various mineral deposits and brines.123

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chemistry of industrial polymers
Ionic initiation
Organometallic compounds such as methyllithium (CH₃Li) constitute one type of anionic initiator. The methyl group of this initiator adds to the styrene monomer to form the anionic species that is associated with the lithium ion Li⁺:
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Organometallic compounds such as methyllithium (CH₃Li) constitute one type of anionic initiator. The methyl group of this initiator adds to the styrene monomer to form the anionic species that is associated with the lithium ion Li⁺:
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organometallic compound
Formation of alkyllithium and Grignard reagents
For example, methyllithium, an important reagent in organic synthesis, is produced commercially by following the reaction: 2Li + CH₃Cl → LiCH₃ + LiCl With other active metals, such as magnesium, aluminum, and zinc, the reaction generally yields the organometallic halide. A common reaction of this type is…
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For example, methyllithium, an important reagent in organic synthesis, is produced commercially by following the reaction: 2Li + CH₃Cl → LiCH₃ + LiCl With other active metals, such as magnesium, aluminum, and zinc, the reaction generally yields the organometallic halide. A common reaction of this type is…
Read More