Internal resistance of a battery cell

In summary, different types of battery cells require different models to accurately represent their behavior. One common model is a constant or variable EMF with a variable internal resistance that increases as the cell discharges. However, this model may not apply to all types of cells, as their behavior can vary based on their chemistry. The EMF of a cell is the potential difference between its terminals when connected externally, and can be calculated using the equation ∆V = E - I*r, where E is the EMF, I is the current, and r is the internal resistance.
  • #1
Cici2017
if a cell is running down, there would be a constant drop in p.d. across the cell, does the internal resistance of the cell increase or decrease?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
There are lots of ways to model a battery cell. One way is with a constant or variable EMF and a variable internal resistance that increases as the cell discharges. That's not a bad model for alkaline cells.

However different types of cell (eg different chemistry) need different models. There isn't a one model that fits the behaviour of all cells.
 
  • #3
Emf of a cell is the potential difference between it's terminals when terminals are connected externally.
∆V=E - I*r
E=emf
I=current
r=internal resistance
 

1. What is internal resistance of a battery cell?

Internal resistance of a battery cell is the resistance that is found within the battery's own components, such as the electrolyte, electrodes, and connections. It is a measure of how much the battery resists the flow of electric current.

2. How is internal resistance measured?

Internal resistance is typically measured by applying a known load to the battery and measuring the voltage drop across the terminals. The ratio of this voltage drop to the current drawn is the internal resistance of the battery.

3. Why is internal resistance important?

Internal resistance is important because it affects the performance of the battery. A higher internal resistance means that the battery will have a lower voltage and will not be able to deliver as much power as a battery with lower internal resistance.

4. How does temperature affect internal resistance?

Temperature can have a significant impact on the internal resistance of a battery cell. As the temperature increases, the internal resistance decreases, leading to higher currents and potentially damaging the battery. On the other hand, a decrease in temperature can increase the internal resistance, reducing the battery's performance.

5. What are some factors that can increase internal resistance?

Some factors that can increase internal resistance of a battery cell include age, high or low temperatures, overcharging or deep discharging, and physical damage to the battery. These factors can lead to changes in the battery's internal chemistry, resulting in an increase in internal resistance.

Similar threads

  • Electromagnetism
Replies
12
Views
3K
Replies
10
Views
1K
Replies
105
Views
7K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
3
Views
436
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • Electrical Engineering
Replies
10
Views
941
  • Electromagnetism
Replies
3
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Back
Top