Cells that run down
A torch cell runs out for good. A phone battery can be charged again.
- A dry cell and a rechargeable cell. Both are full.
- Both run down with use.
- Charging fills the rechargeable cell. The dry cell stays dead.
- After many charges, the rechargeable cell holds less.
A dry cell has a moist paste inside, not a liquid. Moist means slightly wet. The paste is the electrolyte. A dry cell is easier to carry. Its paste does not spill like a liquid.
A rechargeable cell can be charged again. A charger sends current back into it.
The rule
A dry cell cannot be charged. A rechargeable cell can be charged, then works again. After many rounds, it holds less. A cell that holds less runs down sooner.
| Cell | How often it is used | At the end |
|---|---|---|
| Dry cell | Once | Dead for good |
| Rechargeable cell | Many times | Slowly holds less |
Watch out!
Never open, crush or heat a cell. A used cell can still start a fire or harm nature. It goes to a collection point, not the dustbin.
A teacher or an adult handles real cells and chargers. Ask your teacher where used cells go.
Pick a cell. Use it up. Then try to charge it.
Loading lab…