  The phenomenally large enhancement in conductivity observed when Li-doped MgO
crystals are oxidized at elevated temperatures was investigated by dc and ac
electrical measurements in the temperature interval 250-673 K. The
concentration of ([Li]^{0}) centers (Li^{+} ions each with a trapped hole)
resulting from oxidation was monitored by optical absorption measurements.
  Both dc and ac experiments provide consistent values for the bulk resistance.
The electricalconductivity of oxidized MgO:Li crystals increases linearly with
the concentration of ([Li]^{0}) centers. The conductivity is thermally
activated with an activation energy of (0.70 +/- 0.01) eV, which is independent
of the ([Li]^{0}) content. The \textit{standard semiconducting} mechanism
satisfactorily explains these results. Free holes are the main contribution to
band conduction as they are trapped at or released from the ([Li]^{0})-acceptor
centers.
  In as-grown MgO:Li crystals, electrical current increases dramatically with
time due to the formation of ([Li]^{0}) centers. The activation energy values
between 1.3 and 0.7 eV are likely a combination of the activation energy for
the creation of ([Li]^{0}) centers and the activation energy of ionization of
these centers. Destruction of ([Li]^{0}) centers can be induced in oxidized
crystals by application of an electric field due to Joule heating up to
temperatures at which ([Li]^{0}) centers are not stable.
