Does the term "alkaline battery" ring a bell to you? Even if it doesn't, chances are, you've probably used an alkaline battery before.

But what is an alkaline battery? Use this guide to find out more about alkaline batteries:

What Is An Alkaline Battery?

Alkaline batteries became available to the public in the 1960s. This is the world's most popular household battery, but what is an alkaline battery?

Alkaline batteries use an alkaline electrolyte of potassium hydroxide. Alkaline battery chemistry is common in AA, C, and D dry cell batteries. They are normally found in remote controls, toys, cameras, radios, flashlights, and more.

Unlike acidic batteries, an alkaline battery is less dangerous. Non-alkaline batteries are more dangerous because of the battery acid.

How Do They Work?

The anode in an alkaline battery is zinc and the cathode is magnesium oxide. An alkaline battery works because of the chemical reaction between the two.

The electrons in the battery move between the anode and cathode. This creates an electric current making the alkaline battery have power.

Alkaline vs Non-Alkaline Batteries

Alkaline batteries have a lot of advantages compared to non-alkaline batteries. One advantage is that alkaline batteries have a higher energy density. The same energy is produced, but for a longer amount of time.

Alkaline batteries have a bigger capacity than non-alkaline batteries. They also have a longer shelf life. Alkaline batteries can last about five years on the shelf unused.

The probability that an alkaline battery will produce leakage is low. This is because the battery can work at lower temperatures than other batteries.

Not only is this battery safer for you than an acid battery, but it is also safer for the environment as well. There are no required disposal methods for an alkaline battery.

Other advantages of an alkaline battery include low costs, easy to use, a variation of sizes, high energy, and more. The most common alkaline battery sizes are:

• D cells
• C cells
• AA cells
• AAA cells
• AAAA cells
• N cells
• 9Volt cells
• Button cells

Although there are a lot of advantages of alkaline batteries compared to non-alkaline batteries, there are also some disadvantages. Compared to some batteries in the market, an alkaline battery is heavier and bulkier.

Leakage is uncommon but it is possible for an alkaline battery. If left in a device for too long, the battery can leak and damage the circuits.

The advantages of an alkaline battery compared with a non-alkaline battery outweigh the disadvantages. This is why this battery is so popular among households.

Now You Know

Next time you need to buy batteries you will have more knowledge about them. Choosing an alkaline battery over the competitors could be the best option for you. After all, they are the most popular battery type for a reason.

You can purchase alkaline batteries for household items and other products today!