electric cell
Definition
- Noun:
- A device that delivers an electric current as the result of a chemical reaction: An electric cell is a single unit that converts stored chemical energy into electrical energy, producing a direct current (DC) voltage. It is the fundamental building block of a battery.
Usage
- The term "electric cell" is used to describe a single electrochemical unit. It is a technical term common in physics, chemistry, and engineering contexts.
- Important Distinction: A single electric cell (like a standard AA or AAA unit) produces a specific voltage (e.g., about 1.5V for alkaline cells). Multiple cells connected together form a battery.
Examples
- Noun:
- A simple voltaic cell is a type of electric cell.
- The remote control needs a new electric cell.
- The chemical reaction inside the electric cell produces electrons at the anode.
Advanced Usage
- "Primary cell": A non-rechargeable electric cell designed for single use. Its chemical reaction is not easily reversible.
- Disposable flashlights typically use primary cells.
- "Secondary cell": A rechargeable electric cell. Its chemical reaction can be reversed by applying an electrical current.
- The electric cells in a smartphone are secondary cells.
- "Electrochemical cell": A more formal scientific term synonymous with "electric cell," emphasizing the chemical processes involved.
Variants and Related Words
- Cell (n): A common shortened form of "electric cell."
- The battery pack contains six individual cells.
- Battery (n): A collection of two or more electric cells connected together to provide a higher voltage or current.
- A 9V battery often contains six small 1.5V cells.
- Fuel cell (n): A device that generates electricity through an electrochemical reaction using an external fuel supply, such as hydrogen. It is not a single electric cell in the traditional storage sense but operates on similar principles.
Synonyms
- Electrochemical cell: The formal scientific term.
- Galvanic cell: A specific type of electric cell that generates electrical energy from spontaneous redox reactions.
- Voltaic cell: Named after Alessandro Volta; another term for a galvanic cell.
Related Phrases
- Dry cell: A common type of electric cell where the electrolyte is contained in a low-moisture paste, making it less prone to leakage.
- Most household batteries are dry cells.
- Wet cell: An electric cell that uses a liquid electrolyte.
- Early car batteries were wet cells.
- Cell potential / voltage: The electric potential difference between the two terminals of an electric cell when no current is flowing.
Notes
- The term "electric cell" is precise and refers specifically to the single unit. In everyday language, people often use the word "battery" interchangeably, even for a single cell (e.g., a "AA battery" is technically a single AA cell). In scientific and technical writing, the distinction is important.
Noun
-
a device that delivers an electric current as the result of a chemical reaction
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