What does this thing on batteries mean?

In summary: So yes, the battery is supplying 6 volts, but the lamp is only using 3 of those volts. The remaining 3 volts are being used by other components in the circuit.
  • #1
Sam19KY
9
0
Say that 6V battery is connected to a lamp that takes 3V from each coulomb. Does that mean that the battery can supply 6V or dependent upon the need of components in the circuit ?
 
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  • #2
Sam19KY said:
Say that 6V battery is connected to a lamp that takes 3V from each coulomb.
What do you mean? "Take 3V from each coulomb" is totally meaningless.
 
  • #3
I mean 3 joules of energy from each coulomb.
 
  • #4
Sam19KY said:
Does that mean that the battery can supply 6V or dependent upon the need of components in the circuit ?
It will supply 6V to any lamp connected across it since it is a 6V battery. Work done per unit charge is the potential difference, which is 6V here.
 
  • #6
Sam19KY said:
Say that 6V battery is connected to a lamp that takes 3V from each coulomb. Does that mean that the battery can supply 6V or dependent upon the need of components in the circuit ?

Hi Sam. Is there any way you could clarify what you're asking using standard terminology? It sounds like you're referring to a lamp which has a voltage drop of 3 volts. Voltage drop is the loss of energy as current flows through a circuit. A voltage drop of 3 volts means that for every coulomb of charge that passes through the lamp, 3 joules of energy are "lost" to the lamp, leaving a remaining 3 joules/coulomb for the rest of the circuit.

Sam19KY said:
Does that mean that the battery can supply 6V or dependent upon the need of components in the circuit ?

It means that while the battery is supplying 6 volts to the circuit as a whole, only half of that is being used by the lamp. The other 3 volts are being used elsewhere in the circuit.
 
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1. What does the "mAh" on batteries mean?

The "mAh" on batteries stands for milliampere-hours and refers to the battery's capacity to store charge. It is a unit of measurement for the amount of electricity a battery can hold. The higher the mAh, the longer the battery will last before needing to be recharged.

2. What is the difference between "alkaline" and "lithium" batteries?

Alkaline batteries use an alkaline electrolyte, while lithium batteries use a lithium salt electrolyte. Alkaline batteries are typically cheaper and have a lower energy density, meaning they don't last as long as lithium batteries. However, alkaline batteries can be stored for longer periods of time without losing their charge, while lithium batteries lose their charge over time.

3. Do batteries come with an expiration date?

Yes, most batteries do come with an expiration date. This is because batteries have a limited shelf life, regardless of whether they are used or not. The expiration date is usually printed on the battery along with other information like the manufacturer and model number.

4. Can batteries be recycled?

Yes, batteries can and should be recycled. Batteries contain toxic chemicals that can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. Many stores and recycling centers have drop-off bins specifically for batteries. Make sure to check your local recycling guidelines for the proper way to dispose of batteries.

5. How should I store batteries?

Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Extreme temperatures can affect the performance and lifespan of batteries. It is best to store batteries in their original packaging or in a container designed for battery storage to prevent short-circuiting. Avoid storing batteries in a metal container, as this can also cause short-circuiting.

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