Is internal battery "emf" a conservative force?

In summary, a battery creates a conservative electric field and potential, known as V, but it also converts chemical energy into electrical energy to push charges to higher potential. This push force is not the same as the electromotive force (emf), which is the voltage potential. The push force is electrostatic in nature, while the emf is the energy-to-charge ratio. The push force and internal emf are not conservative forces. This is because the electric field created by the chemical reaction in the battery is non-conservative.
  • #1
STosh9
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First, the electric/Coulomb force set up by a battery across its terminal is conservative, and its potential is given by the well-known V. I also understand the conventional usage of emf is as a voltage potential.

However, a battery does more than just set up the electric field and its associated voltage - it provides electrical energy, by conversion from its chemical energy, to push charges to higher potential. Is this "push" force on charges, or internal emf, a conservative force?
 
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  • #2
The push force and the electromotive force are not the same thing.
The former is electrostatic force, and the latter is voltage (energy-to-charge ratio).
 
  • #3
STosh9 said:
Is this "push" force on charges, or internal emf, a conservative force?
No. Electric field due to the chemical reaction in the battery is non-conservative in nature.
 
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  • #4
cnh1995 said:
No. Electric field due to the chemical reaction in the battery is non-conservative in nature.

Thanks cnh1995 for confirming my suspicion. Would you have any references handy that explains this more?
 

1. What is an internal battery "emf"?

An internal battery "emf" is the electromotive force generated within a battery due to chemical reactions. It is the force that drives the flow of electrons through the battery, creating an electric current.

2. Is internal battery "emf" a conservative force?

Yes, internal battery "emf" is considered a conservative force. This means that the work done by the force is independent of the path taken by the charges and only depends on the initial and final positions.

3. How is internal battery "emf" different from external "emf"?

Internal battery "emf" is generated within the battery itself, while external "emf" is generated by an external source of energy, such as a power supply. Internal battery "emf" drives the flow of electrons through the battery, while external "emf" drives the flow of electrons through the entire circuit.

4. Can internal battery "emf" be negative?

Yes, internal battery "emf" can be negative. This occurs when the battery is being charged, and the direction of the electric current is opposite to the direction of the internal "emf". In this case, the internal "emf" acts to resist the flow of electrons.

5. How does the internal "emf" affect the battery's performance?

The internal "emf" is an important factor in determining the battery's overall performance. A higher internal "emf" means that the battery can deliver a higher voltage and power, but it also leads to a shorter battery lifespan. Additionally, the internal "emf" can cause the battery to heat up, which can affect its performance and potentially damage the battery over time.

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