Which of the following is an example of a primary battery?
Alkaline battery
Understanding Primary Batteries: The Example Question
This section provides a detailed explanation to identify which type of battery among the given options is an example of a primary battery. Understanding the difference between primary and secondary batteries is key to answering this question correctly.
What is a Primary Battery?
A primary battery is an electrochemical cell designed for single use. Once the chemical reactants inside the battery are depleted, the battery cannot be effectively recharged and must be discarded. These are often referred to as "disposable" or "non-rechargeable" batteries.
In contrast, a secondary battery is designed to be recharged multiple times after discharge. These are known as "rechargeable" batteries.
Analyzing the Battery Options
Let's examine each option provided to determine its classification:
| Battery Type | Rechargeable Status | Classification | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nickel-cadmium battery | Yes | Secondary | Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries are rechargeable and were widely used in portable electronics before being largely replaced by other technologies like Lithium-ion. |
| Alkaline battery | No | Primary | Alkaline batteries are the most common type of primary battery, found in many household devices like remote controls and flashlights. They are designed for single use. |
| Lead-acid battery | Yes | Secondary | Lead-acid batteries are rechargeable and are commonly used in automobiles for starting, lighting, and ignition (SLI), as well as in uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). |
| Lithium-ion battery | Yes | Secondary | Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are rechargeable and offer high energy density. They power a vast range of modern electronics, including smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles. |
Identifying the Primary Battery Example
Based on the analysis:
- Nickel-cadmium batteries are secondary (rechargeable).
- Alkaline batteries are primary (non-rechargeable).
- Lead-acid batteries are secondary (rechargeable).
- Lithium-ion batteries are secondary (rechargeable).
Therefore, the Alkaline battery is the correct example of a primary battery from the choices given.
Important Questions from Cells and Batteries
Two ampere hour (Ah) is equal to how many Coulombs?
In ideal case, the charging current for 200 Ah battery would be-
- To significantly increase the maximum continuous discharge current (C-rate) a lithium-ion battery pack can safely supply, while maintaining its nominal voltage, which of the following architectural design modifications is most effective?
Which of the following statement is correct for primary cell with regards to secondary cell?
Which battery is used in an electric power station?
