Definition of a Galvanic Cell

Alkaline batteries are a type of galvanic cell.

A galvanic cell, also called a voltaic cell, is a technical term for what are more commonly called batteries. The defining feature of a galvanic cell is that it uses a chemical reaction to produce electrical current.

History

Alessandro Volta is credited with discovering that electricity could be produced inorganically and building the first battery around 1800, according to funsci.com.

Structure

The basic structure a galvanic cell is to have an anode (negative charge) connected to one type of metal and cathode (positive charge) connected to another. The anode and cathode metals, zinc and copper for example, are immersed in an electrolyte solution (salt or acid, typically).

How It Works

A galvanic cell works through a reduction-oxidation reaction (redox) in which the metal at the anode loses electrons (oxidation) and the metal at the cathode takes in electrons (reduction), reports the University of Waterloo. This movement of electrons through a circuit from anode to cathode is electrical current.

Types

Common types of galvanic cells that are readily available to the public include AAA, AA, C, D and 9 volt alkaline batteries. Michael Bluejay notes that alkaline batteries no longer contain mercury and may be safely thrown away in the garbage.

Uses

Galvanic cells are widely used in electronic equipment such as walkie-talkies, portable CD players, flashlights and remote controls.

References

• University of Waterloo: Chemistry of Batteries
• Michael Bluejay's Battery Guide
• funsci.com: Experiments in Electrochemistry

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish