The ancient Appalachian Mountains may be hiding one of the United States' most valuable untapped natural resources. According to new research by the US Geological Survey (USGS), the mountain range contains an estimated 2.5 million tons of lithium, enough to manufacture around 500 billion smartphones, 180 billion laptops or 130 million electric vehicles. The discovery highlights the enormous potential of one of North America's oldest mountain systems at a time when demand for battery materials is soaring. Researchers say the vast reserves could play an important role in strengthening future domestic supplies, although developing them would come with significant technical and environmental challenges.
How much lithium is hidden beneath the Appalachian Mountains?
