ABSTRACT:The geometries and vibrational frequencies of Li H O , n s 4, 5, 6, 8, 18, 2 n Ž . and LiX H O , X s F, Cl, Br, I; n s 3, 6 are calculated at various levels up to MP2r 2 n 6-31qG*. The solution structure and vibrational spectra with noncoordinating counterions are most consistent with our tetracoordinate lithium species. The solution spectra of lithium chloride and bromide solutions are consistent with our predicted spectra of ion pairs. It is shown that, to model the Li-X vibrational mode correctly, both the lithium and halogen must be solvated with a sufficient number of waters.