Cells and batteries: Energy Changes

Electrochemical cell

A device containing chemicals that react to produce electricity

Battery

Two or more electrochemical cells in a series

Constructing a simple cell

Join two different metals together, whilst both are in contact with an electrolyte

Factors which determine a cell's voltage

Type of electrode, concentration of electrolyte, Type of electrolyte

Electrode

a device for conducting electricity

Electrolyte

A substance containing free moving ions

Rechargeable cell

A cell in which the chemical reaction is reversed when a current is applied

Non-rechargeable cell

A cell in which the current stops as a reactant runs out

Reactivity and voltage

The larger the difference in electrode reactivity, the higher the voltage

Metal

An element that forms positive ions

Reactivity of a metal

the tendency of a metal to form positive ions

Positive terminal of a cell

Less reactive metal, accepts electrons

Negative terminal of a cell

More reactive metal, gives electrons