Lead acid battery

Definition

A lead acid battery is a type of rechargeable battery that uses lead dioxide and sponge lead for its electrodes, with sulfuric acid as the electrolyte. It is commonly used in automotive applications and uninterruptible power supplies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Lead acid batteries operate based on the chemical reaction between lead dioxide (PbO2), sponge lead (Pb), and sulfuric acid (H2SO4).
2. During discharge, lead dioxide and sponge lead are converted into lead sulfate (PbSO4) while generating electrical energy.
3. The overall cell reaction can be represented as: $$\text{PbO}_2 + \text{Pb} + 2\text{H}_2\text{SO}_4 \rightarrow 2\text{PbSO}_4 + 2\text{H}_2\text{O}$$.
4. Lead acid batteries have a nominal voltage of approximately 2 volts per cell, with typical car batteries having six cells to produce a total of 12 volts.
5. They are known for their high surge currents, making them ideal for engine starting applications.

Review Questions

• What are the primary materials used for the electrodes in a lead acid battery?
• Write the overall chemical reaction that occurs during the discharge of a lead acid battery.
• Why are lead acid batteries commonly used in automotive applications?

Related terms

Electrolyte:

A substance that produces an electrically conducting solution when dissolved in water. In a lead acid battery, sulfuric acid acts as the electrolyte.

Rechargeable Battery: A type of battery that can be recharged multiple times by passing an electric current through it in the opposite direction of its discharge flow.

Sulfation: The process where lead sulfate crystals form on the electrodes of a lead acid battery, which can reduce its capacity if not properly managed.