Lead-Acid Battery

Definition

A lead-acid battery is a type of rechargeable battery that uses lead dioxide (PbO2) as the positive plate, sponge lead (Pb) as the negative plate, and a diluted sulfuric acid solution as the electrolyte. This battery technology is one of the oldest and most widely used, especially for automotive applications, due to its ability to deliver high surge currents and relatively low cost compared to other battery types.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lead-acid batteries are known for their high energy density, making them suitable for applications requiring high power output, such as starting engines.
2. They have a relatively low specific energy compared to newer technologies like lithium-ion batteries, limiting their use in portable electronics.
3. Lead-acid batteries can be classified into two types: flooded (wet) batteries and sealed (maintenance-free) batteries, each with distinct characteristics and applications.
4. These batteries are highly recyclable, with over 95% of their components being recoverable, which reduces environmental impact and conserves resources.
5. While lead-acid batteries are durable and have a long service life, they do require regular maintenance, such as checking electrolyte levels in flooded versions.

Review Questions

• How do the components of a lead-acid battery contribute to its function and performance?
  • The components of a lead-acid battery—lead dioxide as the positive plate, sponge lead as the negative plate, and sulfuric acid as the electrolyte—work together to facilitate electrochemical reactions. When the battery discharges, the lead dioxide and sponge lead react with the sulfuric acid to produce lead sulfate and water, generating electrical energy. This structure allows for high current delivery, which is essential for applications like starting vehicles. During charging, these reactions are reversed, restoring the original materials.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of lead-acid batteries compared to modern battery technologies.
  • Lead-acid batteries offer several advantages including low cost, high surge currents for applications like starting engines, and extensive recycling options. However, they have notable disadvantages such as lower specific energy than lithium-ion batteries and limited cycle life. This means they are heavier and bulkier for the amount of energy they store compared to newer technologies. Additionally, they require maintenance in certain types, which can be inconvenient in some applications.
• Evaluate the implications of recycling lead-acid batteries on environmental sustainability and resource management.
  • Recycling lead-acid batteries plays a crucial role in promoting environmental sustainability by recovering over 95% of their materials, significantly reducing landfill waste. The process conserves natural resources by reclaiming lead and sulfuric acid for reuse in new batteries or other applications. This not only minimizes environmental hazards associated with improper disposal but also lowers demand for virgin materials. As society moves toward more sustainable practices, efficient recycling systems for lead-acid batteries can greatly contribute to resource management and pollution reduction efforts.

Related terms

Electrolyte: A substance that conducts electricity when dissolved in a solvent, allowing the flow of ions between the positive and negative plates in a battery.

Cyclic Life: The number of charge and discharge cycles a battery can undergo before its capacity significantly decreases, an important factor in assessing battery longevity.

Specific Gravity: A measure of the density of the electrolyte solution in a lead-acid battery, which indicates the state of charge; higher specific gravity typically correlates with a fully charged battery.