Rechargeable batteries can be charged tens or hundreds of times.
Standard alkaline batteries are designed to be discarded when their charges deplete, but rechargeable batteries can offer the same or greater power than standard batteries and can be recharged several times. Rechargeable batteries are suitable for many applications, including electronics and automobiles.
Types
Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) are common rechargeable battery types. They can be found in AA or AAA varieties for electronics applications. Other types include lithium ion, rechargeable variants of the alkaline battery and lead acid batteries, commonly used in automobiles.
Criteria
Michael M. Learner of Oregon State University states that a rechargeable battery must be able to efficiently reverse the chemical reaction that releases electricity several times so electricity can be applied to replenish the chemicals that will produce electricity.
Operation
Batteries create electricity through chemical reactions. A reaction at the anode releases electrons, and another reaction causes the cathode to gain electrons. The electrons cannot flow through the battery, but they will flow through a completed circuit attached to the battery.
Differences
As the chemicals in the battery are depleted, the battery loses power. In a rechargeable battery, these chemicals are replenished when an electrical current is added to the battery instead of drawn from it.
Considerations
Rechargeable batteries reduce waste and can save money over a period of time. They initially cost more than single-use batteries but will save money over the life of the battery. Rechargeable batteries also must be charged using chargers particular to their specific battery types.
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