Most car batteries have seen little change over many decades, while some have experienced significant design improvements. Additionally, the rise of electric vehicles has led to the creation of new types of batteries, which operate differently from the traditional starter batteries used in fuel-powered vehicles. The way these batteries work may seem simple, but they are a remarkable concept in their own right. Let’s take a closer look at how starter car batteries function.
The Lead Acid Battery: A Common Choice
The most common type of starter battery found in cars today is the lead acid battery. This type of battery produces electricity through a chemical reaction involving lead plates, lead oxide plates, and a solution of sulfuric acid mixed with water. When the battery is in use, the sulphate ions in the sulfuric acid chemically bond with the lead plates, forming lead sulphate. This chemical reaction allows electrons to flow, and it is this flow of electrons that generates the electrical energy required to start the car.
The process doesn’t end there. The reaction is reversible when the battery is charged by the car’s alternator while driving. This means that the battery can continuously provide power, be drained, and then recharged, making it an essential component for any car.
How Batteries Have Evolved
Decades ago, car batteries were designed with access to the internal compartments, allowing users to manually add water to the battery. Over time, as the water and acid solution within the battery would slowly evaporate or leak, it needed to be topped up. This was especially common for drivers in rural areas or farmers who relied on these user-serviceable batteries to keep their vehicles running.
However, advancements in battery design have largely eliminated the need for this type of maintenance. Today, most lead acid batteries are sealed and do not require water or any other servicing by the user. These modern batteries come with clear warnings against attempting to open or tamper with the battery. Attempting to do so can be dangerous, as gases build up inside the battery, and a ruptured outer casing could cause injury or damage if the battery overheats.
Battery Safety Considerations
While car batteries are crucial for starting the engine, they also play a role in the vehicle’s overall operation. Care should always be taken when handling a battery. For example, when charging a battery or transporting it for an exchange, it’s important to avoid exposing the battery to excessive heat, as this could cause the casing to rupture or release harmful gases.
When installing or removing a car battery, it’s essential to handle it carefully and avoid any contact with the sulfuric acid solution, which is highly corrosive. If you’re unsure about battery safety or maintenance, it’s always best to consult with a professional, such as a qualified auto electrician.
The Role of the Battery in Modern Cars
While the battery’s primary function is to provide the necessary power to start the vehicle, its role in modern cars extends beyond this. In fact, for any car made after the mid-1980s, the battery is essential to the car’s overall operation. This is largely due to the introduction of on-board computers, which are responsible for controlling many aspects of the car’s performance, including fuel injection and engine management.
Without a constant flow of electricity from the battery, the car’s computer system will eventually shut down, leading to the vehicle stalling. Today’s fuel injectors rely on electricity to deliver fuel to the engine cylinders. If the battery fails, these fuel injectors will stop working, and the car will be unable to run. This reliance on electricity is a key difference between modern cars and older vehicles.
Batteries in Older Cars
In contrast to modern vehicles, older cars equipped with manual carburettors can operate without a functioning battery, as long as they are already started. Once the engine is running, older cars do not require electricity to keep going. However, it’s worth noting that even these older vehicles require a battery for starting the engine, unless the driver resorts to alternative methods, such as a push start.
Conclusion
Car batteries may seem like a straightforward component, but they play a vital role in vehicle operation, particularly in modern cars. The lead acid battery, which has been the go-to choice for decades, operates through a clever chemical reaction that provides the electrical energy needed to start and run a vehicle. Over the years, battery design has evolved, eliminating the need for regular maintenance and improving safety. Whether in a fuel-powered vehicle or an electric car, batteries remain an essential element of automotive technology.
