Batteries and cells are an important invention that have made a lot of our everyday tasks and life much easier. They are practically used in most of the portable electronic devices that we use today. Besides, we can say that we cannot imagine a world without batteries and cells.
Having said that, a cell and battery is quite different from each other even though the terms are used interchangeably sometimes. A battery usually contains electrical energy which is pre supplied from a factory or a battery can be charged via an outlet. Whereas a cell consists of chemical energy source such as natural gas, diesel or propane where it converts these into electrical energy for power. So, in terms of how it is made and the functionalities there are few significant differences between cell and battery.
Difference Between Cell and Battery
When we look at the differences between cell and battery, the biggest distinction would be – a battery typically stores energy whereas a cell generates energy by converting available resources. However, you will find some other differences between the two below.
| Difference Between Cell and Battery | |
| Cell | Battery |
| A cell is a single unit device which converts chemical energy into electric energy. | A battery usually consists of group of cells. |
| Depending on the types of electrolytes used, a cell is either reserve, wet or dry types. Cell also includes molten salt type. | A battery is either a primary battery or a secondary battery meaning it is rechargeable or non-chargeable. |
| A cell is usually light and compact as it has a single unit. | Battery normally consists of several cells thus giving it a bigger size and is bulky. |
| A cell supplies power for a shorter period of time. | A battery can supply power long durations. |
| A cell is used mostly for lighter tasks which requires less energy. It is used in
lamps, clocks, lamp, etc. |
A battery is mostly used for heavy-duty tasks. It is used in inverters, automobiles, inverter, etc. |
| Cells are usually cheap | Batteries are much costlier. |
These are some differences between cell and battery. To know more about important differences between similar products and other chemistry topics you can keep visiting BYJU’s or download our app for interesting content and learning experience.
Related Links
| Types of Battery | Electrochemical Cell |
| Lead Acid Battery | Basic Concepts of EMF and Cell Notation |
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