How Electrochemical Batteries Work

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REDOX Reaction

Oxidation, the loss of electrons, occurs at the anode.

Reduction, the gain of electrons, occurs at the cathode.


Electrochemical Battery History

“Baghdad Batteries”

~1000-2000 years ago.

Terracotta jars containing a copper cylinder separated from an iron rod by

a non-conductive stopper, and filled with an electrolyte.

Debated uses: electroplating, experiencing God


Quick Overview of Other Batteries


.Mercury Battery

.Shelf life of up to 10 years.

.Silver-Oxide Battery

.Prohibitive costs, but excellent energy density.


.Atomic Batteries

.Thermionic Converter

.Thermophotovoltaic Cells

.Reciprocating Electromechanical Atomic Batteries

.Betavoltaics

.Use energy from atom decay emitting beta radiation

.Used for remote and long-term needs, e.g. spacecraft