Batteries

The average household uses 21 batteries per year. A battery is a device that converts chemical energy to electrical energy. In our paper we will be discussing two common types of batteries their chemistry, uses, drawbacks, and ways to dispose

Of them. Hopefully by the end you will have a better understanding of something we all use everyday.

There are basically two common types of batteries that we all use today. The first are called "primary batteries" also known as disposable batteries. These batteries are made to be used once and thrown away. Disposable batteries are mostly used in portable devices that are rarely used and have low current drain. The second common type is the "secondary batteries" or rechargeable battery. Which are made to be recharged and used multiple times.

Next is the chemistry of the battery, which is the driving force behind batteries. A battery is made up of one or more voltaic cells, which contain two half-cells. An oxidation cell and a reduction cell, connecting together they allow electrons transferred from redox reactions to produce energy. Batteries also have specific cell types called "wet cell" and "dry cell." A wet cell battery uses electrolytes that are in the liquid form, and a dry cell battery uses electrolytes that are in the form of a paste. Here are some common batteries we use today:

* Zinc-Carbon dry cell - AAA, AA, C, D and 9 - volt battery. (Disposable)

* Alkaline Batteries - Duracell / Energizer (Disposable/Rechargeable)

* Lead Acid Battery - Automobile (Rechargeable)

* Lithium Iodide Battery (Disposable)

Batteries are in use everyday in our daily life. Dry cell batteries are used to operate electrical equipment such as cameras, remotes, or alarm clocks. They also are used to operate small motors like wheelchairs and golf carts. Smaller batteries usually operate hearing aides and pacemakers. Wet cell batteries are primarily used to operate motor vehicles.

One of the drawbacks to using batteries is that they have limited life. They constantly have to be replaced or recharged. Even rechargeable batteries have a limited life and eventually have to be replaced. Even if you never take the battery out if its package a disposable battery can lose from 8 to 20 percent of its original charge at 20o - 30oC. The price of a battery charger can also be high; also a defective charger can cause a battery to explode. Batteries left in devices for long periods of time can leak and ruin whatever device they are working. Lastly batteries end up in landfills, leak acid and become hazardous waste.

How can we help the environment? Dispose of batteries properly! Most people like us just throw batteries away after each use, which