Silver oxide battery facts for kids

Silver oxide batteries

Silver oxide batteries are a special type of primary cell, which means they are made to be used once and then thrown away. You can't recharge them! These batteries are usually quite small, often shaped like buttons or coins. You'll find them in things like watches, calculators, and some small electronic gadgets.

They are a bit more expensive than other batteries because they contain silver. However, they are a good choice because, unlike older mercury batteries, they don't contain harmful mercury. Silver oxide batteries make electricity through a chemical reaction between zinc and silver(I) oxide. They use a liquid or gel inside called an electrolyte, which is usually made from potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide. This electrolyte helps the chemicals move around and create power.

How Silver Oxide Batteries Work

Inside a silver oxide battery, there are two main parts that react: zinc and silver(I) oxide. When the battery is being used, a chemical process happens:

• The zinc gives away tiny particles called electrons. This is called oxidation.
• The silver(I) oxide takes these electrons. This is called reduction.

This movement of electrons from the zinc to the silver(I) oxide creates an electric current, which is what powers your devices! The electrolyte helps these chemical reactions happen smoothly.

What Are Silver Oxide Batteries Used For?

Because of their small size and steady power output, silver oxide batteries are perfect for many small devices that need a reliable power source.

• Watches: Many wristwatches use these tiny batteries to keep accurate time.
• Calculators: Small, portable calculators often rely on silver oxide batteries.
• Medical Devices: Some small medical gadgets, like certain hearing aids, use them.
• Toys and Electronics: Tiny electronic toys or small remote controls might also use them.

These batteries are known for providing a very stable voltage throughout their life, which is important for devices that need a consistent power supply.

Images for kids

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  Several sizes of button and coin cells, some of which are silver-oxide

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  Silver-oxide battery used to power a quartz watch movement; battery is marked as containing no mercury

See also

In Spanish: Pila de óxido de plata para niños