Connecting Different Batteries in Parallel: What Happens?

AI Thread Summary
Connecting batteries of different voltages in parallel can lead to significant issues, primarily due to the high current flow from the higher voltage battery to the lower one. This can result in overheating, potential damage to the batteries, or even explosions. Circuit theory advises against this practice, as it creates an unsafe situation. The consensus is that such connections should be avoided in real-life applications. Overall, connecting batteries of differing voltages in parallel is dangerous and not recommended.
cepheid
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Stupid question time. What happens if batteries of different voltages are connected in parallel? I know, in circuit theory class, you just don't do that, because it doesn't make sense, but what happens if you actually DO it in real life?
 
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cepheid said:
Stupid question time. What happens if batteries of different voltages are connected in parallel? I know, in circuit theory class, you just don't do that, because it doesn't make sense, but what happens if you actually DO it in real life?

Never done it, but you'd probably blow something out. You'd have a lot of current going from the higher voltage battery to the lower one.
 

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