Generally speaking, cells generate power through a thermal, chemical or optical process.Alkaline: One of the most common types, alkaline batteries contain an alkaline electrolyte, usually potassium hydroxide. There are many types of Lead-acid batteries, so letвЂ™s start by taking a look at them first.A cell is a single unit that produces electricity through some method. Lead-acid batteries have been around for a long time, while Lithium-ion is the newer technology. When it comes to 12-volt rechargeable storage batteries, two primary types are currently used, Lead-Acid and Lithium-ion.

The capacity is how long a particular battery will last in Ah ( Ampere hours) :A battery with a capacity of 1 Ah will last for one hour operating at 1 A.Batteries can also be rated by their energy capacity. These batteries can be more expensive to purchase but generate less waste as they can be used several times.Batteries are often rated in terms of their output voltage and capacity. This causes the chemical action to go in reverse, effectively being restored, meaning that they are rechargeable. These batteries are single use, which results in more waste from the use of these batteries since they are disposed of after a relatively short period of time.This type of cell (referred to as wet due to using a liquid electrolyte) generates a current through a secondary cell in the opposite direction of the first/normal cell. Primary cells ('dry')In these cells a chemical action between the electrodes and electrolyte causes a permanent change, meaning they are not rechargeable. A cutaway diagram, showing the anatomy of an alkaline battery.

Phet SimulationThe University of Colorado has graciously allowed us to use the following Phet simulation.

Types Of Batteries