When a battery will no longer produce current

In summary, a battery stops producing current when the negative and positive terminals reach equilibrium in terms of electric potential. This means that there is no longer a difference in charge between the two poles. Even though there may still be charge left in a dead battery, it cannot produce current because it has nowhere to go. Connecting both poles of a spent battery to a new grounded reservoir will not result in current flow because a battery does not store its charge like a tank of electrons. It works by pushing electrons through a circuit via a chemical reaction. Once this reaction is complete, the battery is considered "dead" and no further work can be extracted from it.
  • #1
John Galt
15
0
When a battery will no longer produce current does this mean the negative and positive terminals have equal charge? Current flows from the negative to the positive based on there being a higher and a lower electric potential between the poles, so when the current stops flowing is it because these two poles have reached equilibrium?
 
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  • #2
I think the electric potential of the poles are equal as there are no current produced
 
  • #3
Well, if that's true, there is still charge left in a battery when it won't work anymore because it has nowhere to go. What if both poles of a spent battery were wired to a new grounded reservoir? Would current flow?
 
  • #4
A battery isn't like a tank full of electrons. It has no net charge and only works by pushing electrons around a loop.
 
  • #5
A chemical reaction is allowed to occur by connecting the leads of a battery. Inside, a Reduction-Oxidation ("RedOx") reaction occurs in which electrons are transferred from one substance to anther (through your circuit). When the battery is "dead", the reaction is complete and no further work can be extracted out of the system.
 

1. What causes a battery to stop producing current?

There are several reasons why a battery may no longer produce current. One common reason is that the electrodes inside the battery may become corroded or worn down over time, reducing the surface area available for chemical reactions to occur. Another possibility is that the electrolyte solution inside the battery may dry out, preventing the flow of ions needed for current to be produced.

2. How can I tell if a battery is no longer producing current?

The most obvious sign that a battery is no longer producing current is when the device it powers stops working. You can also test a battery's voltage using a multimeter - a healthy battery should have a voltage between 1.5 and 1.6 volts. If the voltage is significantly lower, it may indicate that the battery is no longer producing current.

3. Can a battery be revived once it stops producing current?

In some cases, a battery can be revived by recharging it. This is because the chemical reactions that produce current in a battery are reversible. However, if a battery has been depleted or damaged beyond a certain point, it may no longer be able to hold a charge and will need to be replaced.

4. How long does a battery typically last before it stops producing current?

The lifespan of a battery varies depending on factors such as its type, storage conditions, and usage patterns. Generally, a battery will last anywhere from 1 to 3 years before it starts to lose its ability to hold a charge. However, this can vary greatly and some batteries may last longer or shorter periods of time.

5. What should I do with a battery that is no longer producing current?

It is important to dispose of batteries properly, as they contain chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. If a battery is no longer producing current, it should be recycled at a designated recycling facility. Do not throw batteries in the trash or attempt to open them yourself.

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