Analysis of the mineral petalite in 1817 resulted in the identification of a new chemical element, lithium, by the Swedish chemist Johan August Arfwedson. Working within the laboratory of Jöns Jakob Berzelius in Stockholm, he successfully isolated the substance as a salt, expanding the periodic table and providing a foundation for future chemical research.
Early Education and Career
Born in 1792 at Finnerödja, Arfwedson was the son of Jacob Arfwedson, a wholesale merchant and factory owner, and Anna Elisabeth Holtermann. He matriculated at Uppsala University in 1803, completing a law degree in 1809 followed by a degree in mineralogy in 1812. His professional life began at the Royal Board of Mines, where he served in an unpaid position before advancing to the role of notary in 1814.
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Arfwedson gained access to the private laboratory of Jöns Jakob Berzelius in Stockholm. It was here that he performed his significant research on petalite. By isolating lithium as a salt, he separated the element from other known components. While his work provided the discovery, the subsequent task of isolating lithium as a pure metal was conducted by others. Following his discovery, he traveled through Europe in 1818 and 1819, often accompanied by Berzelius.
Later Years and Legacy
Upon returning to Sweden, Arfwedson established a laboratory at his private estate. He dedicated a significant portion of his later life to the management and growth of his inherited wealth. In 1821, he was elected as a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. The mineral arfvedsonite was named in his honor. He died in 1841 in Bilbao.
Fast facts
- Born: 1792, Finnerödja
- Died: 1841, Bilbao
- Education: Uppsala University
- Discovery: Lithium (1817)
- Professional role: Notary and chemist
- Academy membership: Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences (1821)
Questions readers ask
What element did Johan August Arfwedson discover?
He discovered lithium in 1817 by isolating it as a salt during an analysis of petalite.
What is the origin of the mineral name arfvedsonite?
The mineral was named to honor Johan August Arfwedson and his contributions to chemistry.
Achievements
- Educated at Uppsala University
- Fields of research: chemistry
