Dry Cell Battery Key Terms

Learn about dry cell battery technology

Dry cell batteries are the some of the most common batteries in use. Dry cells are used in everything from small electronic gadgets to medium-sized appliances due to the wide range of voltages available. These batteries are maintenance free, spill-proof and leak-proof. Dry cell batteries are also environmentally friendly because the batteries do not emit any type of hydrogen gases or carbon dioxide. Dry cell batteries are also available in a number of performance types.

 

Cycle life

The cycle life of a battery describes the number of cycles a battery can complete before it is no longer usable. The capacity must fall below the 60-80% range before it is considered non-usable.
Try: Electropaedia provides an overview of the battery life cycle and ways to improve it.

Capacity

The capacity of a dry cell battery is the amount of electrical energy that is released computed in ampere hours. The capacity of a battery is reached once it hits the cut-off stage in voltage.
Try: Powerstream provides a comparison chart of AA capacity tests that compare different types of dry cell and rechargeable battery types.

Voltage

Voltage measures electrical pressure. Yhe voltage in batteries is expressed in DC (direct current) volts.
Try: Battery Education provides a history and explanation of battery voltage.

Alkaline battery

Alkaline batteries are the most common dry cell batteries on the market. They are non-rechargeable and have a greater capacity for power than other types of dry cell batteries.
Try: Rayovac, a division of Spectrum Brands, provides information on the steps it takes to create an alkaline battery and the reason these batteries can provide a longer life.

Cell

A battery cell is the most basic unit that converts the chemical energy inside a battery into electrical energy. This process works by isolating two dissimilar electrodes to immobilize an electrolyte, creating energy.
Try: Sun Power Technologies provides answers to frequently asked questions about the basics of a battery and how batteries work.

Heavy-duty battery

The heavy-duty battery is another type of dry cell battery that is used in applications with low or medium drain. Heavy-duty batteries are typically less expensive than alkaline and not recommended for high drain applications.
Try: Sunturn Power Products provides a guide for choosing between alkaline and heavy-duty battery types for specific electronic products.

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