Storage & Transmission of Electrical Energy

Flashcards about static electricity, electrochemical cells, and batteries.

Static Electricity

Electric charge that is stationary and not moving.

Electrical Discharge (Static Shock)

The build-up of a negative charge that jumps to another object, attracted to positive charge.

Van de Graff Generators

A device that produces a build-up of static using friction.

Electrochemical Cells

Transforms chemical energy into electrical energy by creating a flow of electrons between two substances through chemical reactions.

Electrodes

Two different metals through which electric current enters or leaves an electrochemical cell.

Electrolyte

Paste or liquid that forms ions in an electrochemical cell.

Conductor

Allows electrons to move in Electrochemical Cell

Volts (V)

The unit used to measure voltage, which is the pressure between electrons.

Dry Cell

Electrolyte is a paste. Safe & portable. Only leaks if negative electrode is degraded

Wet Cell

Has 2 metal electrodes and electrolyte SOLUTION (ACID). Can spill if tipped. Corrosive electrolyte can leak. Example: lead acid car battery

Secondary Cells

Rechargeable cells where the chemical reaction can be reversed, and electricity restores the reactants.

Battery

Multiple cells connected together, usually sealed into cases with only 2 terminals, to produce more voltage and power.

Electrochemistry

The study of electricity and chemical reactions, where some reactions use electrons and others create free electrons.

Electrolysis

Uses electricity to split a compound into elements, such as H2O (l) → H2 (g) + O2 (g).

Electroplating

Uses electricity to coat an object with a thin layer of metal.

Electrorefining

Uses electricity to purify a substance