LECLANCHE CELL Meaning and
Definition
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A Leclanché cell, named after the French chemist Georges Leclanché, is a type of primary battery that generates electrical energy through a chemical reaction. It is commonly used in low-power applications such as toys, flashlights, and telegraphy.
The Leclanché cell consists of a zinc anode, a porous pot containing manganese dioxide as the cathode, and an aqueous ammonium chloride solution serving as the electrolyte. When the cell is in use, zinc atoms from the anode release two electrons and dissolve into the electrolyte, resulting in the creation of zinc ions and a release of electrons. These electrons travel through an external circuit, delivering electrical energy to the device being powered. Meanwhile, the zinc ions combine with ammonium ions in the electrolyte to form zinc-ammonium chloride complexes.
One notable characteristic of the Leclanché cell is its low internal resistance, allowing it to deliver a relatively high current. However, its overall capacity is limited, and it is not rechargeable. Once the zinc anode is fully consumed, the cell becomes inactive and must be replaced.
Despite being less common in modern applications due to the rise of rechargeable batteries, the Leclanché cell still maintains relevance in situations where cost-effectiveness and simplicity are prioritized over long-term usability.
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A galvanic cell, consisting of a carbon plate in a porous cylinder filled with a mixture of manganese dioxide and carbon, and a zinc plate in sal ammoniac solution.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for LECLANCHE CELL
- keclanche cell
- peclanche cell
- oeclanche cell
- lwclanche cell
- lsclanche cell
- ldclanche cell
- lrclanche cell
- l4clanche cell
- l3clanche cell
- lexlanche cell
- levlanche cell
- leflanche cell
- ledlanche cell
- leckanche cell
- lecpanche cell
- lecoanche cell
- leclznche cell
- leclsnche cell
- leclwnche cell
Etymology of LECLANCHE CELL
The word "Leclanché cell" is named after its inventor, Georges Leclanché, a French engineer. Georges Leclanché patented this type of electrical cell in 1866. The cell was initially known as the "wet battery" or "gravity cell", but later came to be associated with Leclanché's name due to his significant contributions and improvements to the design. Over time, the term "Leclanché cell" became a widely used and recognized name for this particular type of battery.
