Question -
Answer -
Lithiumis the smallest in size among the alkali metals. Hence, Li+ ion can polarizewater molecules more easily than other alkali metals. As a result, watermolecules get attached to lithium salts as water of crystallization. Hence,lithium salts such as trihydrated lithium chloride (LiCl.3H2O) are commonly hydrated.As the size of the ions increases, their polarizing power decreases. Hence,other alkali metal ions usually form anhydrous salts.