Electrochemistry

What are the basic components of an electrochemical cell?

Anode, cathode, electrolyte.

What is the primary function of a primary battery?

To produce electricity from chemicals that cannot be recharged.

What is the difference between an anode and a cathode in a battery?

Anode is where oxidation occurs and electrons are produced; cathode is where reduction occurs and electrons are consumed.

What is a galvanic cell?

An electrochemical cell that produces electricity from spontaneous redox reactions.

What is charge and discharge cycling in batteries?

It refers to the processes of charging a secondary battery and using it to release stored energy.

Which battery type is known for its high energy density and widespread use in portable electronics?

Lithium-ion batteries.

What are some limitations of lithium-ion batteries?

Poor charge retention, high cost, and potential fire hazards.

What is the main advantage of nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries over nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries?

Higher energy density and better environmental properties.

What defines the cycle life of a battery?

The number of charge-discharge cycles it can undergo before failure.

How does temperature affect battery performance?

High temperatures may lead to overheating and thermal runaway, while low temperatures can reduce efficiency and capacity.

What is thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries?

A condition where the battery overheats, which can lead to fires or explosions.

What is the Nernst equation used for?

To relate the potential of an electrode to the concentration of reactants and products in an electrochemical reaction.

What are emerging battery technologies trying to address?

Increasing energy density, safety, longevity, and cost-effectiveness.

What distinguishes a fuel cell from a galvanic cell?

A fuel cell continuously converts chemical energy to electrical energy, while a galvanic cell stores energy until used.

What is the importance of a Battery Management System (BMS)?

It monitors and regulates battery charging and discharging to enhance safety.

What is the effect of overcharging a lead-acid battery?

It can lead to electrolysis of water, damaging the battery and causing safety risks.

What is an electrochemical cell?

A device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy.

What are the two main types of electrochemical cells?

Galvanic (voltaic) cells and electrolytic cells.

What is the role of the electrolyte in an electrochemical cell?

To allow the flow of ions and to complete the electrical circuit.

What is the standard electrode potential?

The measure of the individual potential of a reversible electrode at standard conditions.

What are redox reactions?

Reactions involving the transfer of electrons between two species.

What is the difference between oxidation and reduction?

Oxidation is the loss of electrons, while reduction is the gain of electrons.

What is the function of a separator in a battery?

To prevent direct contact between the anode and cathode while allowing ionic movement.

What is the theoretical voltage of a cell?

The voltage that can be produced based on the materials and reactions used.

What factors affect the performance of batteries?

Temperature, state of charge, design, and chemical composition.

What is the main function of a cathode in a battery?

To facilitate the reduction process during discharge.

What are the common applications of fuel cells?

Electric vehicles, stationary power generation, and backup power systems.

What are the environmental benefits of using NiMH batteries?

Reduced toxicity compared to NiCd batteries and better recyclability.

What is the process of self-discharge in batteries?

The natural loss of charge in a battery over time without use.

What safety measures can be taken with lithium-ion batteries?

Incorporation of Battery Management Systems (BMS) and proper thermal management.

What is the purpose of a battery charger?

To restore electrical energy to rechargeable batteries.

What is the significance of the term 'capacity' in batteries?

The total amount of energy a battery can store, usually measured in ampere-hours (Ah).

How do lead-acid batteries work?

They use lead dioxide and sponge lead as electrodes and sulfuric acid as the electrolyte.

What is a battery's 'cycle life'?

The total number of complete charge and discharge cycles a battery can perform before its capacity significantly decreases.

What is hybrid energy storage?

Combining different energy storage technologies to improve efficiency and reliability.

What are supercapacitors?

Energy storage devices that store energy through electrostatic charge instead of chemical reactions.

How does the pH of an electrolyte influence battery performance?

It can affect the solubility of reactants and the overall efficiency of electrochemical reactions.