Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Electrical batteries are devices that store and release electrical energy through chemical reactions. They consist of one or more electrochemical cells, which convert chemical energy into electrical energy.
Related terms
Capacitors: These are electronic components that store and release electrical energy quickly, but they have lower energy density compared to batteries.
Lithium-ion Batteries: A type of rechargeable battery commonly used in portable electronics due to their high energy density and long lifespan.
Lead-acid Batteries: These are commonly used in vehicles as starting batteries because they can deliver high bursts of power.