Applications of Cells and Batteries Flashcards
What is the difference between a cell and a battery?
A cell is the fundamental unit consisting of a positive electrode, a negative electrode, and an electrolyte solution. A battery is an arrangement of two or more cells (although a single dry cell is commonly called a battery)
What is the difference between a primary cell and a secondary cell?
A primary cell is chemically irreversible after the active ingredients have been consumed, whereas the secondary cell can be recharged
What does the term “dry cell” imply?
The electrolyte is combined with various ingredients to form a paste or gel, rather than a liquid form
What is another name for the carbon-zinc dry cell?
The Leclanche cell
Which primary cell with similar features is considered as the heavy-duty counterpart to the carbon-zinc cell?
zinc-cloride cell
In order to form a 9V transistor battery, how must the individual carbon-zinc cells be connected?
In series (six 1.5V cells)
What two advantages does the alkaline cell have over the standard carbon-zinc cell?
Greater energy capacity; longer life (during both discharge and storage)
In what type of case shape are silver-oxide and mercury cells commonly constructed?
Miniture “button” case styles
Which type of primary cell has the highest open-circuit voltage?
Lithium cell (3V)
Which type of primary cell is generally considered as the most expensive for its energy capacity?
Silver-oxide cell
What is a storage battery?
A large-capacity rechargeable battery
What is meant by the term “wet cell”?
A storage (secondary) battery that has a liquid electrolyte
What are the four main categories of secondary batteries?
Automotive (SLI) batteries; motive power batteries; standby batteries; portable batteries
The relative density of the electrolyte in a battery is measured with an instrument called a ________
Hydrometer
What is the relative density expected for a fully charged portable battery?
Between 1280 and 1300 relative density
What is the relative density expected for a fully charged stationary battery?
Between 1210 and 1225 relative density
What happens to the internal resistance of a lead-acid battery during normal discharge?
The internal resistance increases during discharge, resulting in a decrease of the battery’s terminal (working) voltage
What is the terminal voltage expected for a fully charged, six-cell, lead-acid battery?
13.2V (Six cells at 2.2V per cell)