Lithium battery facts for kids
A lithium battery is a special type of battery that lasts a long time. It is also very light and gives off a lot of power. You often find them in small devices like watches or calculators. Many lithium batteries are shaped like a flat coin.
As the name suggests, these batteries contain a metal called lithium. When the battery is used, the lithium goes through a chemical change called oxidation. This process creates the electricity that powers your devices.
One important thing to know is that lithium batteries are usually not rechargeable. Once they run out of power, they are finished and should be recycled or thrown away properly.
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What are Lithium Batteries?
Lithium batteries are known for being very efficient. They can store a lot of energy in a small space. This makes them perfect for gadgets that need to be small and light. They are also great for devices that need power for a long time, like smoke detectors or car key fobs.
How They Work Inside
Inside a lithium battery, there are different parts. One part is made of lithium. Another part is called the cathode, which often uses materials like manganese dioxide. When the battery is working, tiny charged particles move between these parts. This movement creates an electric current. It is like a tiny power plant working inside the battery!
Different Sizes and Uses
Lithium batteries come in many different sizes. Each size has a special code to identify it. For example, a CR1216 is a very small battery. A CR2012 is a medium-sized one. And a CR2450 is a larger coin-shaped battery. The numbers in the code tell you about the battery's size. For instance, "CR2032" means it's 20 millimeters wide and 3.2 millimeters thick.
Because they are so powerful and last a long time, lithium batteries can sometimes cost more than other types of batteries. However, their long life often makes them a good choice for many devices.
Related pages
Images for kids
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Lithium 9 volt, AA, and AAA sizes. The top object is a battery of three lithium-manganese dioxide cells, the bottom two are lithium-iron disulfide cells and are compatible with 1.5-volt alkaline cells.
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Diagram of lithium button cell battery with MnO2 (manganese dioxide) at cathode.
