How Batteries Work

A Battery
A battery is an
electrochemical cell known as a voltaic cell --a chemical reaction releases moving electrons

Whats going on
The chemical reaction that generates
electricity in a battery is known as oxidation-reduction reaction

OXIDATION A substance loses

electrons REDUCTION A substance gains electrons

2 Types of Batteries
Dry Cell Wet Cell Both have electrolytes a liquid substance
which acts as a medium to conduct electricity.

Wet Cell
A wet cell electrolytes are contained in a
liquid.

A Dry Cell
A dry cells electrolytes are contained in a
low-moisture paste.

Each Battery Contains

+ Anode-oxidator releases electrons Cathode-reducer gains electrons These are known as electrodes

Separator or Bridge
Every Battery needs a bridge which
prevents the buildup of excess charge at the two electrodes

Without the bridge the charge buildup at

the electrodes would prevent the oxidation-reduction reactions from continuing

Normal A Battery

Batteries vs Wall Socket

Batteries produce Direct Current (DC) Electrical Outlets produce Alternating
Current (AC) where the electrons move back and forth

How do I recharge my phone

nickel-cadmium and lithium can be
recharged the chemical reactions in a rechargeable battery are reversible: when the battery is discharging the reactions go one way and the battery gives out power when the battery is charging, the reactions go in the opposite direction and the battery absorbs power.