Advantages/disadvantages of secondary cells

Question 1

Lead-acid: advantages

Answer 1

• Simple to manufacture
• Cheap
• Low self-discharge rates

Question 2

Lead-acid: disadvantages

Answer 2

• Low energy density
• Environmental concerns - lead
• Overcharging: hydrogen gas produced - explosion risk
• Lead = toxic

Question 3

Nickel-cadmium (advantages)

Answer 3

• Charge quickly
• High no. charge-discharge cycles

Question 4

Nickel-cadmium - disadvantages

Answer 4

• Cd/Ni: environmental concerns in disposal

Question 5

Lithium-ion: advantages

Answer 5

• High energy densities
• Low discharge rates

Question 6

Lithium-ion: disadvantages

Answer 6

• Relatively expensive
• Known to explode (LMAO), causing fires that are difficult to extinguish