carbonzinc

Carbonzinc is a term that refers to a type of dry cell battery chemistry that uses carbon and zinc as its primary electrode materials. Specifically, it is often associated with the Leclanché cell, one of the earliest and most common types of dry cell batteries. In a typical carbon-zinc battery, the cathode is made of manganese dioxide and carbon powder, while the anode is a rod or cylinder of zinc. The electrolyte is usually an aqueous solution of ammonium chloride and zinc chloride.

When the battery is discharged, the zinc anode oxidizes, releasing electrons. These electrons travel through an external circuit to the cathode. At the cathode, the manganese dioxide is reduced. This electrochemical reaction produces a flow of electricity. Carbon-zinc batteries are known for their relatively low cost and good shelf life, making them suitable for low-drain devices such as remote controls, clocks, and simple toys.

However, carbon-zinc batteries also have limitations. Their energy density is lower compared to more modern battery technologies like alkaline or lithium-ion. They also tend to have a lower voltage output and capacity, and their performance can degrade significantly in cold temperatures or under heavy load. Despite these drawbacks, carbon-zinc batteries remain a popular choice for many common household applications due to their affordability and availability. They are often referred to as "heavy duty" or "general purpose" batteries.