Nickel-cadmium battery

Definition

A nickel-cadmium (NiCd) battery is a type of rechargeable battery that uses nickel oxide hydroxide and cadmium as its electrodes. Known for its high energy density and ability to perform well in extreme temperatures, this battery is commonly used in portable electronics and power tools. Its ability to be recharged multiple times makes it a secondary battery, which is distinct from primary batteries that are disposable after use.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Nickel-cadmium batteries have a nominal voltage of 1.2 volts per cell, which allows for consistent power delivery over multiple cycles.
2. They are particularly known for their ability to deliver high discharge rates, making them suitable for applications requiring a burst of power.
3. One drawback of NiCd batteries is the 'memory effect,' where they can lose their maximum energy capacity if not fully discharged before recharging.
4. These batteries can operate effectively in a wide temperature range, typically from -20°C to 60°C (-4°F to 140°F).
5. Due to environmental concerns related to cadmium toxicity, the use of nickel-cadmium batteries has decreased in favor of alternatives like lithium-ion batteries.

Review Questions

• How does the chemical composition of nickel-cadmium batteries influence their performance and applications?
  • The chemical composition of nickel-cadmium batteries, which includes nickel oxide hydroxide and cadmium as electrodes, contributes significantly to their performance characteristics. The materials allow for a high energy density and consistent voltage output, making them suitable for various applications such as power tools and portable electronics. However, cadmium's toxicity raises environmental concerns, impacting how these batteries are utilized and disposed of.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using nickel-cadmium batteries compared to other types of rechargeable batteries.
  • Nickel-cadmium batteries offer several advantages such as high discharge rates and reliable performance in extreme temperatures. However, they also have notable disadvantages including the memory effect, which can limit their lifespan if not properly managed. Additionally, environmental issues due to cadmium toxicity have led to reduced usage compared to alternatives like lithium-ion batteries, which provide higher energy densities and less environmental impact.
• Evaluate the implications of the declining use of nickel-cadmium batteries on technology and environmental practices.
  • The declining use of nickel-cadmium batteries has significant implications for both technology and environmental practices. As industries move towards more environmentally friendly alternatives, technologies that require reliable power sources are increasingly utilizing lithium-ion or other greener options. This shift not only addresses health and ecological concerns associated with cadmium but also drives innovation in battery technology, leading to advancements in energy storage solutions that are safer and more efficient for future applications.

Related terms

Rechargeable Battery: A type of battery that can be charged and discharged multiple times, unlike primary batteries which are single-use.

Cadmium: A heavy metal used as one of the electrodes in nickel-cadmium batteries, known for its toxicity and environmental concerns.

Battery Capacity: The amount of electric charge a battery can store, typically measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).