(1) How Batteries Work

Flashcards covering the functioning of batteries, specifically lead-acid batteries, their components, and associated parameters.

What is a Battery's Anatomy?

Batteries are composed of one or more cells. Each cell contains alternating positive (cathode) and negative (anode) plates, separated by porous separators. These separators hold the electrolyte, which facilitates the movement of ions between the electrodes, allowing for the flow of electric current during charge and discharge cycles.

What is the electrolyte composition in a fully charged lead-acid battery?

Sulfuric Acid

What happens during the Discharge Process of a battery?

As the battery discharges, the plates fill in the most accessible areas first, like a parking lot, during this, Lead Dioxide (+) and Pure Lead (-) turn into Lead Sulfate, and water gets formed when sulfuric acid combines with the active material in the plates.

What happens during the Charging Process of a battery?

When charged, water is driven from the acid solution, increasing the strength of the sulfuric acid electrolyte by returning the sulfate ions and reversing the lead sulfate into its former lead dioxide (+) and sponge lead (-)

What is the voltage of charged lead-acid cells?

Charged lead-acid cells have a voltage of 2.1V each.

What is the effect of plate thickness on battery capacity?

Large, thick plates have the same voltage but a higher electron capacity compared to thin plates.

How does plate thickness affect charging speed?

Thicker plates mean slower charging, while thinner plates charge faster