Cell- Introduction

Cell

Introduction

A battery is a device that converts chemical energy  into electric energy by means of an electrochemical reaction (Oxidation & Reduction). This type of reaction involves the transfer of electrons from one material to another via an electric circuit.While the term battery is often used the cell is the actual electrochemical unit used to generate or store electric energy.

In understanding the differences between a cell and a battery, one should think of a battery as one or more of these cells connected in series, or parallel, or both, depending on the desired output voltage and capacity.

Basic Components of Cells 

Cells are comprised of 3 essential components.

• The Anode is the negative or reducing electrode that releases electrons to the external circuit and oxidizes during and electrochemical reaction.
   
• The Cathode is the positive or oxidizing electrode that acquires electrons from the external circuit and is reduced during the electrochemical reaction.
   
• The Electrolyte is the medium that provides the ion transport mechanism between the cathode and anode of a cell. Electrolytes are often thought of as liquids, such as water or other solvents, with dissolved salts, acids, or alkalis that are required for ionic conduction. It should however be noted that many batteries including the conventional (AA/AAA/D) batteries contain solid electrolytes that act as ionic conductors at room temperature.

How it Works?

When in operation the electrochemical cell essentially discharges its chemical energy in favor of electric energy. If the cell is connected via an external circuit from the cathode to the anode, electrons flow from the oxidized anode and are received by the cathode, which is subsequently reduced. The electric circuit is completed by cations and anions, within the electrolyte, which flow to the cathode and anode, respectively.

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