How can reversing current affect battery charging?

In summary, when connecting a wire to a battery and passing current through it, the battery will be charged. Changing the direction of the current using an external power source will also charge the battery. However, this only works in one direction and it is important to avoid reverse current charging to prevent harm to the battery. This can be done by using a diode rectifier or making sure the battery charger is connected correctly. Different battery types may have different charging capabilities.
  • #1
spidey
213
0
i am connecting a wire to a battery and i pass current in wire and so battery will be charged.suppose if i change the direction of current then will the battery charge? i.e if i change the direction of current alternatively after some time?

why i am confused is because of this? suppose if i move magnet through a coil connected to battery then an emf will be generated and is stored in battery.then if i move the magnet away i.e in opposite direction then the direction of current is reversed so now will the battery charge?
 
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  • #2
When you hook up a circuit to a battery to power a light for instance, current will flow until the battery is drained. Reversing the direction of the current through the battery using an external power source will charge the battery. This direction is the ONLY direction that charges the battery.
 
  • #3
I would say it depends on the battery type. A capacitor, electrolytic for example, can be charged in either direction. A car battery or chemical battery structure may be different.

This is a good question, if you think about one of those cheap, shake up flash lights - they have a coil and then a metal slug in them, so the slug goes through the coil and this produces energy that gets stored in the battery. If it goes the other way though, you just drained that battery. My guess is that they have a diode built into them and that you only get power in one direction.
 
  • #4
Guys, you use a diode rectifier to couple the AC from a coil into a battery to form the charging circuit. The diode also keeps the charging circuit from being a load to the battery.
 
  • #5
how can we aviod reverse current charging
 
  • #6
You have to be careful to avoid this.

If you connected a battery charger the wrong way around to a car battery that was already flat, you could attempt to charge the battery the wrong way around and it would possibly harm the battery by causing unwanted chemical reactions in the battery.

Although the battery charger contains diodes, they would be conducting normally in this case, but still doing damage to the battery.

This is why dedicated battery chargers, like those used on laptop computers for example, always have a plug that can only be connected the right way around.
 

1. What is reverse current in a battery?

Reverse current, also known as reverse current flow, occurs when the current flowing through a battery is in the opposite direction of the intended flow. This can occur when the battery is being discharged or charged, and can cause damage to the battery if not properly controlled.

2. How does reverse current affect battery life?

Reverse current can significantly impact battery life by causing damage to the battery's internal components. This can lead to reduced capacity, increased self-discharge, and ultimately shorten the overall lifespan of the battery.

3. What causes reverse current in a battery?

Reverse current can be caused by a variety of factors, including overcharging, short circuits, and incorrect wiring. It can also occur in certain types of batteries, such as rechargeable batteries, when they are not properly drained before being recharged.

4. How can reverse current be prevented?

Reverse current can be prevented by using proper charging techniques, ensuring correct wiring and connections, and using protective devices such as diodes to prevent current from flowing in the wrong direction. It is also important to regularly inspect and maintain batteries to prevent any potential issues.

5. Can reverse current be fixed in a battery?

In most cases, reverse current cannot be fixed in a battery. Once damage has been done, it is difficult to reverse. However, if caught early enough, steps can be taken to prevent further damage and prolong the battery's lifespan. It is important to consult a professional if reverse current is suspected in a battery.

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