Describe an energy conversion that takes place in a car battery. - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question ii - 2022

A car battery primarily converts chemical energy into electrical energy.

The process starts with chemical reactions occurring within the battery's cells. These reactions involve the electrolyte and the electrodes, usually consisting of lead and lead dioxide for lead-acid batteries. During discharge, the chemical energy stored in the battery is released through these reactions, resulting in the flow of electrons, which generates electrical energy.

This conversion is crucial because it enables the battery to provide the necessary power to start the car engine and operate electrical components. Understanding this energy conversion is vital for grasping how batteries function in automotive systems.