Lead Storage Battery
Definition and meaning of Lead Storage Battery in chemistry.
A lead storage battery is a type of rechargeable secondary cell that uses lead dioxide, spongy lead, and sulfuric acid to generate electrical energy. It is the oldest and most common type of rechargeable battery, primarily utilized in automotive vehicles to provide the high current required to start the engine.
In more detail
The battery consists of a series of galvanic cells with an anode made of a lead grid filled with spongy lead and a cathode made of lead dioxide, both submerged in a sulfuric acid electrolyte. When discharging, both the anode and cathode are converted into solid lead(II) sulfate, and the concentration of sulfuric acid decreases as water is produced. During recharging, an external current reverses the reaction, regenerating the lead, lead dioxide, and sulfuric acid. Its ability to deliver high surge currents and its relatively low cost make it indispensable for automotive applications.
Key facts
| Field | Analytical Chemistry |
|---|---|
| Anode Material | Lead (Pb) |
| Cathode Material | Lead dioxide (PbO2) |
| Electrolyte | Sulfuric acid (H2SO4) |
A standard 12-volt car battery is a lead storage battery containing six internal 2-volt cells connected in series.
Frequently asked questions
Why do lead storage batteries become less effective in cold weather?
Cold temperatures slow down the chemical reactions inside the battery, reducing the amount of electrical current it can produce to start an engine.