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radaballer
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An electrolyte is neutral, so what allows it to conduct exclusively positive ions in a battery and not electrons?
Bystander said:Cu wire is neutral, so what allows it to conduct exclusively electrons in an external circuit and not positive ions?
I see, I want to understand what physical process allows either conductor (the Cu or the electrolyte) to transport a exclusively a positive or negative chargeBystander said:You're objecting to one "neutral" medium transporting charge carriers, and you have no objection to a second "neutral" medium transporting charge carriers. It's the same question. What physical processes are you interested in understanding?
In an electrolyte, a the charges in a substance such as NaCl are divorced from one another and form ions i.e. negative and positive charges. If there are equal proportion of each in an electrolyte(making the substance neutral), what then makes the electrolytes cater to positive ions in particular?Bystander said:Cu atoms are playing "hot potato" with electrons given a potential difference between the ends of the conductor that is sufficient that electrons can make the jump, or be tossed from one atom to the next. What are analogous structures/entities in an electrolyte solution?
The electrolyte in a battery conducts electricity through a process called ionization. This involves the movement of ions, which are charged particles, through the electrolyte solution. The positive ions, or cations, are attracted to the negative electrode (cathode) and the negative ions, or anions, are attracted to the positive electrode (anode). This movement of ions creates an electrical current.
The electrolyte plays a crucial role in a battery by providing a medium for the movement of ions between the electrodes. It also helps to maintain a balance of charges within the battery, preventing a buildup of electric charge and allowing for continuous flow of electricity.
The type of electrolyte used in a battery can greatly impact its performance. Some electrolytes, such as sulfuric acid, have a high conductivity and can produce a strong electrical current. Others, like lithium-ion electrolytes, have a lower conductivity but can store more energy, making them suitable for use in portable devices. The choice of electrolyte depends on the specific needs of the battery.
Temperature can greatly affect the performance of the electrolyte in a battery. As temperature increases, the electrolyte becomes more conductive, allowing for a higher rate of ion movement and therefore a stronger electrical current. However, extreme temperatures can also cause the electrolyte to break down or evaporate, leading to a decrease in battery performance.
In most cases, the electrolyte in a battery cannot be replaced. Once the battery has been fully discharged, the electrolyte is consumed and cannot be replenished. However, some types of batteries, such as lead-acid batteries, can be recharged and have their electrolyte levels topped up. It is important to follow proper disposal regulations for used batteries to prevent harm to the environment.