primary cell

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primary cell

A child inserts a new primary cell into a toy car.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • An electric cell that generates an electromotive force by an irreversible conversion of chemical to electrical energy; cannot be recharged: A "primary cell" is a type of battery designed for single use. It produces electrical energy through a chemical reaction that is not easily reversible. Once the chemical reactants are depleted, the cell cannot be practically recharged and must be replaced.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The remote control requires two AA primary cells.
    • Primary cells, such as alkaline batteries, are common in household devices.
    • Unlike a car battery, a primary cell is disposable after use.
Advanced Usage
  • Technical Context: In engineering, a "primary cell" is contrasted with a secondary (rechargeable) cell. Its design prioritizes energy density and shelf life over cycle life.
    • The sensor's long-term deployment relied on a high-capacity primary cell.
  • Historical Context: The term often refers to early non-rechargeable battery designs.
    • The Daniell cell was a historically important primary cell.
Variants and Related Words
  • Primary Battery (n): A battery consisting of one or more primary cells connected together.
    • The flashlight uses a 6-volt primary battery.
  • Galvanic Cell (n): A broader electrochemical term that includes primary cells as a subset where chemical energy is converted to electrical energy.
  • Dry Cell (n): A common type of primary cell where the electrolyte is contained in a low-moisture paste.
    • Most consumer primary cells are of the dry cell variety.
Synonyms
  • Disposable battery: A common synonym emphasizing its single-use nature.
  • Non-rechargeable battery: A descriptive synonym highlighting its key functional difference.
Related Phrases
  • To be powered by primary cells: Describes a device that uses this type of battery.
    • The emergency transmitter is powered by primary cells for reliability.
  • Primary cell chemistry: Refers to the specific chemical system used (e.g., zinc-carbon, alkaline, lithium).
    • The device's performance depends heavily on its primary cell chemistry.
Notes on Meaning
  • The core meaning is defined by irreversibility. A "primary cell" is fundamentally a one-time conversion device.
  • It is a single, complete electrochemical unit. Multiple primary cells can be combined to form a primary battery.
primary cell

A child inserts a new primary cell into a toy car.

Noun
  1. an electric cell that generates an electromotive force by an irreversible conversion of chemical to electrical energy; cannot be recharged

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