Lithium (Li) is in group 1 of the periodic table, meaning it has one valence electron. It tends to lose this electron to achieve a stable octet, forming a +1 cation (Li+).

To form an ionic compound, lithium would need to bond with an element that readily gains an electron to form a -1 anion.

Elements that typically form -1 anions are found in group 17 (halogens), such as:

* Fluorine (F)

* Chlorine (Cl)

* Bromine (Br)

* Iodine (I)

Therefore, the element most likely to bond with lithium and form an ionic compound is chlorine (Cl). This would form lithium chloride (LiCl).