Bateries

Bateries is a misspelling of the term batteries, which refers to devices that store chemical energy and convert it to electrical energy. A battery typically consists of one or more electrochemical cells that generate electricity through redox reactions.

Cells can be primary (non-rechargeable) or secondary (rechargeable). Primary cells, such as alkaline or zinc-carbon types, provide a fixed amount of energy and are discarded after use. Rechargeable families include lead-acid, nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), lithium-ion, and solid-state batteries, each with different energy density, voltage, cycle life, and safety profiles.

Inside a cell, chemical reactions occur at the anode and cathode, separated by an electrolyte. Electrons flow through an external circuit to do work, while ions move within the cell to balance charge. The materials, architecture, and operating conditions determine voltage, capacity, rate capability, and overall efficiency.

Batteries face limitations such as finite capacity that degrades over cycles and time, sensitivity to temperature, and safety risks including overheating or gas buildup. Charging and discharging require management of current, voltage, and temperature, often with electronic controls. Recycling and responsible disposal are important due to materials such as lithium, cobalt, lead, and rare earth elements.

Applications span consumer electronics, automotive propulsion, and grid-scale storage. Research aims to improve energy density, charging speed, lifespan, safety, and cost, with advances in chemistries such as solid-state, lithium-sulfur, and advanced lithium salts, as well as better separators and battery management systems. Standards exist for testing performance and safety to enable comparison and regulation.