ForumIAS announcing GS Foundation Program for UPSC CSE 2025-26 from 26th June. Click Here for more information.
Source: The post is based on the article “Electric Batteries: How does an electric battery work and what are the different types?” published in “The Hindu” on 15th November 2023
Why in the News?
Electric Batteries have increased the penetration of motorisation and the lack of wires in our lives.
What are Electric Batteries?
| Specifications | Details |
| Definition | An electric battery is a device that stores electrical energy in the form of chemical energy and releases it as electrical power when needed. |
| Invention | American scientist and inventor Benjamin Franklin first used the term “battery” in 1749 when he was doing experiments with electricity using a set of linked capacitors. The first true battery was invented by the Italian physicist Alessandro Volta in 1800. |
| Working | Electric battery consists of one or more electrochemical cells, each composed of two electrodes (anode and cathode) separated by an electrolyte. During discharge, a chemical reaction within the battery allows electrons to flow from the anode to the cathode through an external circuit, creating an electric current. This process converts chemical energy into electrical energy. |
| Corrosion in batteries | Corrosion in electric batteries refers to the gradual degradation or deterioration of metal components within the battery due to chemical reactions. Factors such as moisture, humidity, and the presence of certain chemicals can contribute to corrosion. |
| Different Types of Batteries | 1. Lithium-ion batteries: Used in smartphones, laptops, digital cameras, electric vehicles, portable electronic devices. – Note: M. Stanley Whittingham, John Goodenough and Akira Yoshino were awarded the 2019 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for their contributions to the development of lithium-ion batteries. 2. Lead Acid Batteries: Used in automotive starting batteries, backup power systems, UPS. 3. Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) Batteries: Used in Portable power tools, medical equipment, and emergency lighting. |
UPSC Syllabus: Science and Technology
