A battery produces chemical energy and provides power when combined with another electronic device, like an MP3 player, radio or toy. Batteries make it possible for consumers to use their electronics while they are on the go, instead of being stuck to an electrical outlet for power. Unfortunately, all batteries eventually run out of power, and nothing is more annoying than a battery that has lost its power right when you need it the most.
A battery is a portable electrochemical cell that includes two metal electrodes and a chemical solution. This solution produces electricity by reacting with the two electrodes. However, when this reaction is complete, the electrodes will no longer come into contact with the solution and battery will lose power. If the battery is disposable, then the battery is dead and unusable once the reaction is complete. If the battery is rechargeable, then charging it essentially reverses the chemical reaction.
If you have ever had the battery or batteries in your portable music player die at the beginning of a long trip, you realize how annoying it can be. Fortunately, there are a few ways to extend the life of your batteries. One way is to store your batteries in the freezer when they are not in use. This can extend the life of a battery by about 5 percent, because it slows down the chemical reaction going on inside the battery.
Another way to keep your batteries from dying is to make sure that all electronics are completely turned off when they are not in use. Even leaving a device in sleep mode or mostly off will drain the life right out of your batteries. Also, if you are on a long trip and need your batteries to last, it is important to use only the basic features of a device. For example, using a cell phone to surf the Internet or listen to music will drain its battery much faster than using it for a few quick phone calls.