What is the fundamental definition of an electric battery as described in the text?

An electric battery is defined as a power source composed of one or more electrochemical cells with external connections designed to power electrical devices. When supplying power, its positive terminal serves as the cathode and its negative terminal as the anode.

How does an electric battery supply power to an external circuit?

When connected to an external electric load, the negatively charged electrons flow from the negative terminal (anode) through the circuit to the positive terminal (cathode). This flow drives a redox reaction, converting higher energy reactants into lower energy products, delivering the free-energy difference as electrical energy.

How has the term "battery" evolved in its usage?

Historically, the term "battery" specifically referred to a device composed of multiple electrochemical cells. However, its usage has broadened over time to include devices that consist of only a single cell.

What are the two main classifications of batteries based on their usage, and what distinguishes them?

Batteries are classified as primary (single-use) or secondary (rechargeable). Primary batteries are discarded after a single discharge because their electrode materials change irreversibly, while secondary batteries can be recharged multiple times by reversing the chemical reactions with an applied electric current.

Can you provide examples of primary and secondary batteries and their common applications?

An example of a primary battery is the alkaline battery, commonly used in flashlights and portable electronics. Secondary batteries include lead-acid batteries, used in vehicles, and lithium-ion batteries, found in laptops and mobile phones.

What is the range of battery sizes mentioned in the article?

Batteries come in a wide range of sizes, from miniature cells used in hearing aids and watches to very large battery banks that can stabilize electrical grids. For instance, the world's largest battery, built by Tesla in South Australia, can store 129 MWh.

Who first used the term "battery" in the context of electricity, and what was its origin?

Benjamin Franklin first used the term "battery" in 1749. He applied it to a collection of linked Leyden jar capacitors, drawing a parallel to the military term for a group of weapons working together, as multiplying the jars allowed for greater stored charge and power.

Who invented the first electrochemical battery, and what was it called?

The first electrochemical battery, known as the voltaic pile, was invented and described by Italian physicist Alessandro Volta in 1800.

What was the composition of Volta's voltaic pile, and what was his initial understanding of its energy source?

Volta's voltaic pile was constructed as a stack of copper and zinc plates separated by disks soaked in brine. Initially, Volta believed his cells were an inexhaustible energy source and did not understand that the voltage was generated by chemical reactions, viewing electrode corrosion as a mere nuisance.

How did Michael Faraday contribute to the understanding of Volta's battery?

In 1834, Michael Faraday demonstrated that the corrosion effects observed at the electrodes of Volta's pile were not just a nuisance but an unavoidable consequence of their operation, clarifying the role of chemical reactions.

What was the significance of the Daniell cell, and who invented it?

Invented by British chemist John Frederic Daniell in 1836, the Daniell cell was the first practical source of electricity. It became an industry standard and was widely adopted for powering electrical telegraph networks.

What advancement made portable electrical devices practical, and how did it achieve this?

The invention of dry cell batteries near the end of the nineteenth century made portable electrical devices practical. These batteries replaced liquid electrolytes with a paste, eliminating the spillage issues associated with earlier wet cells.

What trends have driven the significant growth in battery demand since 2010?

Battery demand has grown substantially due to the electrification of transportation and the widespread deployment of batteries in electricity grids, supported by decarbonization initiatives.

How are distributed electric batteries integrated into modern energy systems?

Distributed electric batteries, such as those in battery electric vehicles and home energy storage systems, are becoming active participants in smart power supply grids. They are often connected to smart grids with smart metering for demand response purposes.

What is the concept of "secondary use" for electric vehicle batteries?

The secondary use of partially depleted electric vehicle batteries involves repurposing them for applications like backup power supplies or renewable energy storage systems after their capacity drops below 80% in vehicles, thereby extending their overall utility and reducing energy storage costs.

How is computational modeling impacting battery development?

Computational modeling has revolutionized battery materials design by enabling high-throughput screening and atomistic simulations. This accelerates the discovery of new electrolytes and electrodes, moving beyond traditional trial-and-error methods.

How do batteries convert energy, and what determines the electrical energy released?

Batteries directly convert chemical energy into electrical energy. The amount of electrical energy released is largely determined by the difference in cohesive or bond energies of the chemical substances involved in the electrochemical reaction.

What are the essential components of a voltaic cell within a battery?

A voltaic cell consists of two half-cells, each containing an electrolyte and an electrode. These half-cells are connected in series by a conductive electrolyte, and some cells use a separator to prevent electrolyte mixing while allowing ion flow.

What is the electromotive force (emf) of a cell, and how is the net emf determined?

The electromotive force (emf) is the electrical driving force of a half-cell relative to a standard, measured in volts. The net emf of a complete cell is the difference between the emfs of its two half-cells.

How does the terminal voltage of a battery change during discharge and charging compared to its open-circuit voltage?

The terminal voltage of a discharging cell is lower in magnitude than its open-circuit voltage due to internal resistance. Conversely, the terminal voltage of a charging cell exceeds the open-circuit voltage.

What factors influence the voltage developed across a battery's terminals?

The voltage developed across a battery's terminals is determined by the energy released from the chemical reactions occurring between its electrodes and electrolyte. Different chemistries result in different voltages, such as the 1.5 volts for alkaline cells and 3 volts or more for lithium cells.

Can common household items be used to demonstrate battery principles, and if so, how?

Yes, common items can demonstrate battery principles. For example, inserting two different metal electrodes into a lemon or potato can generate small amounts of electricity, showcasing the basic concept of an electrochemical cell.

What is the key difference between primary and secondary batteries regarding their chemical reactions?

Primary batteries have chemical reactions that are generally not reversible, meaning they cannot be recharged once exhausted. Secondary batteries, however, have reversible chemical reactions that allow them to be recharged by applying an electric current.

Why are primary batteries often preferred for certain applications, and what are their limitations?

Primary batteries are often used in portable devices with low current drain or intermittent use because they can produce current immediately upon assembly and have higher energy densities than many rechargeable batteries. However, they do not perform well under high-drain applications and cannot be reliably recharged.

What are the characteristics and common uses of lead-acid batteries?

Lead-acid batteries are a common type of secondary battery, widely used in automotive and boating applications. They are relatively heavy, have a low manufacturing cost, and can deliver high surge currents, making them suitable for applications where weight is less critical than capacity.

What are the advantages of dry cell batteries over earlier wet cells?

Dry cell batteries utilize a paste electrolyte, which means they contain no free liquid. This allows them to operate in any orientation without spilling, making them more suitable for portable devices compared to wet cells, which were often fragile glass containers prone to leakage.

What is a "wet cell" battery, and what are some examples?

A wet cell battery uses a liquid electrolyte and was a precursor to dry cells. Examples include the Daniell cell, Grove cell, and Bunsen cell, which were historically used in various applications, and they are still found in automobile batteries and industrial standby power systems.

What is a "dry cell" battery, and what are its advantages for portability?

A dry cell battery uses a paste electrolyte with just enough moisture for current flow. Its advantage is that it can operate in any orientation without spilling, making it ideal for portable devices, unlike earlier wet cells which were prone to leakage.

What is a reserve battery, and how is it activated?

A reserve battery is designed for long-term storage in an unassembled state. It is activated when needed, typically by adding electrolyte, which can happen automatically, for example, upon impact in certain military applications like artillery fuzes.

What is a solid-state battery, and what potential benefits does it offer?

A solid-state battery uses a solid electrolyte instead of liquid or paste. Developments in this area suggest potential benefits such as increased safety, faster charging, longer lifespan, higher energy density, and the use of less expensive, more environmentally friendly materials.

What is a "gel battery" and an "Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery"?

Gel batteries and AGM batteries are types of sealed valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA) batteries. Gel batteries use a semi-solid electrolyte, while AGM batteries absorb the electrolyte within a fiberglass mat, both offering improved safety and shelf life over traditional lead-acid wet cells.

How do industrial-grade batteries differ from consumer-grade batteries?

Industrial-grade batteries are typically more expensive and may use chemistries that offer a higher power-to-size ratio, exhibit lower self-discharge rates for longer shelf life, and possess greater resistance to leakage or damage from conditions like high temperature and humidity.

What is a "battery pack," and what additional features might it include?

A battery pack is a collection of batteries used when a device does not use standard-format batteries. It often includes a battery management system (BMS) and a battery isolator to ensure the batteries within the pack are charged and discharged evenly.

What types of batteries are used for grid-scale energy storage, and what is their purpose?

Grid-scale energy storage utilizes large batteries, such as sodium-sulfur batteries, to collect and store energy from the grid or power plants. This stored energy can then be discharged later to provide electricity or grid services, helping to stabilize the grid and manage loads.

What factors dictate the important properties of a battery, such as voltage and energy density?

Many crucial battery properties, including voltage, energy density, flammability, construction types, operating temperature range, and shelf life, are determined by the battery's specific chemistry.

According to the provided table, which primary battery chemistry offers the highest theoretical voltage?

The lithium-(carbon fluoride) Li-(CF)n chemistry offers the highest theoretical voltage among the primary batteries listed, at 3.6 volts.

Which secondary battery chemistry is noted for its high energy density but also its volatility?

Lithium-ion batteries are noted for their very high energy density but also their volatility, carrying a risk of explosion or fire if short-circuited, overheated, or not manufactured with rigorous quality control.

How does temperature affect a battery's ability to deliver power?

A battery's ability to deliver power is reduced at low temperatures. To counteract this, some car owners use battery warmers in cold climates to keep the battery at an optimal temperature.

What is battery capacity, and how is it typically measured?

Battery capacity refers to the amount of electric charge a battery can deliver before its voltage drops below a specified level. It is usually measured in ampere-hours (A·h) or milliampere-hours (mA·h) for smaller batteries.

How does the discharge rate affect a battery's usable capacity?

The higher the discharge rate, the lower the total capacity a battery can deliver. This relationship is often described by Peukert's law, which quantizes how capacity decreases as current draw increases.

What is the "C-rate," and how is it used in battery specifications?

The C-rate is a measure of the rate at which a battery is charged or discharged, defined relative to its nominal capacity. It is used to indicate the maximum current a battery can safely deliver and is often used by manufacturers to rate capacity and cycle life over specific discharge times (e.g., 4-hour or 8-hour rates).

What advancements in charging speed were noted in the 2000s and 2020s?

In 2009, experimental lithium iron phosphate batteries could discharge their energy in 10 to 20 seconds. More recently, prototypes demonstrated charging from 10% to 80% in five minutes, with one Chinese company claiming 10.5 minutes for the same charge level.

What are the two distinct meanings of "battery life" for rechargeable batteries?

For rechargeable batteries, "battery life" can refer to "endurance," which is the length of time a device can run on a single charge, or "lifespan," which is the number of charge/discharge cycles a battery can undergo before failing to operate satisfactorily.

How does temperature affect battery storage and performance?

Storing batteries at lower temperatures, such as in a refrigerator, can slow down self-discharge reactions and extend their shelf life. However, batteries must be returned to room temperature to reach their maximum voltage, as performance is reduced at low temperatures.

What is "self-discharge," and how does it affect different battery types?

Self-discharge is the gradual loss of charge over time due to internal side chemical reactions, even when the battery is not in use. Disposable batteries typically lose 8-20% of their charge per year at room temperature, while rechargeable batteries, especially older nickel-based types, can self-discharge more rapidly.

What is the "memory effect" in batteries, and which type is most affected?

The memory effect is a decrease in a battery's capacity that can occur in nickel-cadmium (NiCd) cells if they are used in a specific repetitive manner. While NiMH cells have a similar chemistry, they suffer less from this effect.

Why do automotive lead-acid batteries typically have a limited lifespan of around six years?

Automotive lead-acid batteries experience significant stress from vibration, shock, and temperature variations. Additionally, sulfation of their lead plates contributes to degradation, limiting their lifespan to about six years of regular use.

What are the common causes of battery explosions?

Battery explosions are typically caused by misuse, such as attempting to recharge primary (non-rechargeable) batteries, or by internal short circuits. Overcharging at an excessive rate can also produce explosive gases, and a short circuit in car batteries can lead to rapid hydrogen release and ignition.

What risks are associated with battery leakage?

Battery leakage can release corrosive or poisonous chemicals, which may damage or disable the equipment the battery powers. Many manufacturers recommend removing batteries from devices that will be stored for extended periods to prevent such damage.

What toxic materials are commonly found in batteries, and why is proper disposal important?

Many batteries contain toxic materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium. Proper disposal is crucial to prevent environmental damage, as these batteries are considered electronic waste (e-waste) and their toxic components can contaminate landfills.

Electric Battery Wiki: The Electric Heartbeat: A Comprehensive Exploration of Batteries

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Introduction

Power Source

An electric battery serves as a fundamental source of electric power, comprising one or more electrochemical cells. These cells are interconnected externally to supply energy to electrical devices. The positive terminal functions as the cathode, while the negative terminal acts as the anode, facilitating the flow of electrons.

Electrochemical Principles

At its core, a battery converts chemical energy directly into electrical energy through redox reactions. The difference in potential energy between reactants is released as electrical energy. This process involves the movement of electrons from the anode to the cathode through an external circuit, balanced by ion flow within the electrolyte.

Historical Context

The term "battery" was first coined by Benjamin Franklin to describe a collection of Leyden jars used together. However, the first true electrochemical battery, the voltaic pile, was invented by Alessandro Volta in 1800, marking a pivotal moment in the understanding and application of electricity.

Historical Evolution

Early Innovations

Benjamin Franklin introduced the term "battery" in 1749, referring to an array of Leyden jars. Alessandro Volta's invention of the voltaic pile in 1800, a stack of copper and zinc plates separated by brine-soaked disks, established the first practical electrochemical cell. Volta initially misunderstood the energy source, attributing it to contact electricity rather than chemical reactions.

The Voltaic Pile and Daniell Cell

Volta's pile provided a steady current for extended periods. However, early batteries, including wet cells, were prone to leakage and fragility. John Frederic Daniell's invention of the Daniell cell in 1836 offered a more stable and practical power source, becoming the standard for early electrical telegraph networks.

The transition from wet cells to dry cells in the late 19th century, utilizing paste electrolytes, was crucial for enabling portable electronic devices. This innovation overcame the limitations of liquid electrolytes, making batteries more robust and versatile.

Expansion Needed

This section requires further development to provide a comprehensive historical overview. Contributions from various researchers and the evolution of battery chemistries are key areas for expansion.

This section needs expansion. You can help by making an edit requestadding to it . (February 2022)

Battery Classifications

Primary vs. Secondary

Batteries are broadly categorized into primary (single-use) and secondary (rechargeable) types. Primary cells, like alkaline batteries, undergo irreversible chemical reactions and are discarded after depletion. Secondary cells, such as lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries, can be recharged multiple times by reversing the chemical reactions.

Wet and Dry Cells

Wet cells utilize liquid electrolytes, historically used in early batteries and still found in automotive applications. Dry cells employ paste electrolytes, offering greater portability and the ability to operate in any orientation, making them ideal for portable electronics.

Other specialized types include reserve batteries, activated only when needed, and molten salt batteries operating at high temperatures. Emerging technologies like solid-state batteries promise enhanced safety and energy density, while biological batteries utilize enzymes for power generation.

Specialized Designs

Reserve batteries are designed for long-term storage before activation. Water-activated batteries trigger upon immersion. Solid-state batteries represent a significant advancement in safety and performance, utilizing solid electrolytes. Biological batteries, powered by sugar and enzymes, offer a novel approach to energy generation.

Core Principles

Energy Conversion

Batteries function by converting stored chemical energy directly into electrical energy. This conversion is driven by the difference in cohesive or bond energies of the materials involved in the electrochemical reaction, typically between metals and their oxides or ions.

Electromotive Force (EMF)

Each electrochemical cell possesses an electromotive force (EMF), measured in volts, representing the potential difference between its electrodes. The net EMF of a battery is the sum of the EMFs of its individual cells. This voltage dictates the electrical driving force available to power a circuit.

Terminal Voltage and Internal Resistance

The terminal voltage, observed across the battery's terminals, can differ from the EMF due to internal resistance. During discharge, terminal voltage is lower than EMF; during charging, it is higher. An ideal battery would have negligible internal resistance, maintaining a constant terminal voltage until fully discharged.

Performance Metrics

Capacity Measurement

Battery capacity, typically measured in ampere-hours (A·h) or milliampere-hours (mA·h), quantifies the amount of electric charge a battery can deliver. Rated capacity is often based on a 20-hour discharge at room temperature, but actual delivered capacity varies significantly with discharge rate, temperature, and battery chemistry.

Discharge Rate Effects

The relationship between current draw and delivered capacity is often described by Peukert's Law. Higher discharge rates generally lead to lower effective capacity. This phenomenon is critical for understanding battery performance in high-drain applications.

C-Rate and Charging

The C-rate measures the charge or discharge current relative to the battery's capacity. While a 1C rate implies a full discharge in one hour, practical C-rates affect battery life and capacity. Advanced technologies are enabling faster charging, with some prototypes achieving significant charge levels in minutes.

Longevity and Endurance

Endurance vs. Lifespan

Battery "endurance" refers to the duration a device operates on a single charge. For rechargeable batteries, "lifespan" denotes the number of charge/discharge cycles before performance degrades significantly. Both are influenced by chemistry, usage patterns, and environmental factors.

Self-Discharge and Degradation

Batteries naturally lose charge over time due to internal chemical side reactions (self-discharge). Rechargeable batteries also degrade with each cycle as active materials change or detach. Lower temperatures can slow self-discharge but may impact performance.

Rechargeable batteries like NiCd and NiMH have varying self-discharge rates. NiCd batteries can exhibit a "memory effect" if not properly managed. Automotive lead-acid batteries face stresses from vibration and temperature, typically lasting around six years, while deep-cycle variants offer greater longevity through thicker plates.

Storage and Maintenance

Proper storage, ideally at low temperatures, can extend battery shelf life by slowing self-discharge. However, manufacturers often advise against refrigeration due to potential condensation damage. Understanding specific battery chemistry is crucial for optimal maintenance and longevity.

Safety Considerations

Explosion and Fire Risks

Battery misuse, such as attempting to recharge primary cells or experiencing short circuits, can lead to explosions. Overcharging can generate flammable gases like hydrogen and oxygen. Lithium-ion batteries, in particular, require rigorous manufacturing standards due to their potential volatility.

Chemical Leakage and Toxicity

Battery chemicals can be corrosive or toxic. Leakage, often due to over-discharge or damage, can harm devices and users. Many batteries contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, and cadmium, necessitating proper disposal and recycling to prevent environmental contamination.

Ingestion Hazards

Small button cells pose a significant ingestion risk, especially to children. If lodged in the digestive tract, their electrical discharge can cause severe tissue damage, including liquefaction necrosis, potentially leading to fatal outcomes. Manufacturers sometimes add bitterants to discourage ingestion.

Regulation and Policy

Disposal and Recycling

Legislation mandates safe disposal and recycling of batteries due to their hazardous components. Laws like the US Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act and the EU Battery Directive aim to reduce environmental impact and promote recycling infrastructure.

Consumer Rights and Design

Regulations are evolving to enhance consumer safety and product longevity. Recent EU agreements require appliances to be designed for easy battery removal and replacement by users, promoting repairability and reducing electronic waste.

Recalls and Safety Standards

Product recalls, particularly for devices using lithium-ion batteries, highlight the importance of stringent safety standards. Ongoing research and development focus on improving battery safety, performance, and sustainability through advanced materials and manufacturing processes.

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References

for instance, in the discovery of electromagnetism in 1820

Battery History, Technology, Applications and Development. MPower Solutions Ltd. Retrieved 19 March 2007.

ZOOM activities: phenom Potato Battery. Accessed 10 April 2007.

Howstuffworks "Battery Experiments: Voltaic Pile". Accessed 10 April 2007.

Duracell: Battery Care. Retrieved 10 August 2008.

Alkaline Manganese Dioxide Handbook and Application Manual (PDF). Energizer. Retrieved 25 August 2008.

Amos, J. (24 August 2008) "Solar plane makes record flight" BBC News

A Guide to Understanding Battery Specifications, MIT Electric Vehicle Team, December 2008

Self discharge of batteries. Corrosion Doctors. Retrieved 9 September 2007

Rechargeable battery Tips. NIMH Technology Information. Retrieved 10 August 2007

Battery Myths vs Battery Facts. Retrieved 10 August 2007

Batteries. EPA. Retrieved 11 September 2007

"San Francisco Supervisor Takes Aim at Toxic Battery Waste". Environmental News Network (11 July 2001).

Disposal of spent batteries and accumulators. European Union. Retrieved 27 July 2009.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Electric battery Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This content has been generated by Artificial Intelligence for educational and informational purposes only. It is based on publicly available data and may not be exhaustive, fully accurate, or entirely up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information provided herein is not a substitute for expert consultation regarding electrical engineering, materials science, or safety protocols. Always consult official documentation and qualified professionals for specific applications and safety requirements.

The creators of this page are not liable for any errors, omissions, or consequences arising from the use of this information.

The Electric Heartbeat

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Introduction 💡

🔋 Power Source

⚛️ Electrochemical Principles

🔌 Historical Context

Historical Evolution ⏳

📜 Early Innovations

⚡ The Voltaic Pile and Daniell Cell

⚠️ Expansion Needed

Battery Classifications 🗂️

➡️ Primary vs. Secondary

💧 Wet and Dry Cells

💡 Specialized Designs

Core Principles ⚙️

⚡ Energy Conversion

⚖️ Electromotive Force (EMF)

🔄 Terminal Voltage and Internal Resistance

Performance Metrics 📊

🔋 Capacity Measurement

📈 Discharge Rate Effects

⏱️ C-Rate and Charging

Longevity and Endurance ⏳

📅 Endurance vs. Lifespan

📉 Self-Discharge and Degradation

❄️ Storage and Maintenance

Safety Considerations ⚠️

💥 Explosion and Fire Risks

🧪 Chemical Leakage and Toxicity

👶 Ingestion Hazards

Regulation and Policy ⚖️

♻️ Disposal and Recycling

📱 Consumer Rights and Design

🚨 Recalls and Safety Standards

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

Power Source

Electrochemical Principles

Historical Context

Historical Evolution

Early Innovations

The Voltaic Pile and Daniell Cell

Expansion Needed

Battery Classifications

Primary vs. Secondary

Wet and Dry Cells

Specialized Designs

Core Principles

Energy Conversion

Electromotive Force (EMF)

Terminal Voltage and Internal Resistance

Performance Metrics

Capacity Measurement

Discharge Rate Effects

C-Rate and Charging

Longevity and Endurance

Endurance vs. Lifespan

Self-Discharge and Degradation

Storage and Maintenance

Safety Considerations

Explosion and Fire Risks

Chemical Leakage and Toxicity

Ingestion Hazards

Regulation and Policy

Disposal and Recycling

Consumer Rights and Design

Recalls and Safety Standards

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice