Déjà vu of our eighth-grade physics classes, primary and secondary cells refer to different types of batteries or cells. Different types of cells exist, each suited to their purpose vary accordingly.
They are electrochemical cells of a parallel combination.
Primary and secondary cells yield chemical energy to produce a sufficient response.
Key Takeaways
- Primary cells are non-rechargeable and have a limited lifespan, while secondary cells are rechargeable and can be used multiple times.
- Primary cells are less expensive than secondary cells but have a lower capacity and are less environmentally friendly.
- Primary cells are commonly used in low-power devices like remote controls, while secondary cells are used in high-power devices like electric vehicles.
Primary Cell vs Secondary Cell
A primary cell is a non-rechargeable cell that generates electricity through an irreversible chemical reaction. They are affordable and limited to only one use. Secondary cells are rechargeable cells that generate electricity through a reversible chemical reaction. It supports multiple levels of current and can be recharged for multiple uses.
As the name states, primary cells can only be utilized a single time. This quality essentially means that a primary cell cannot be recharged for further use.
Its chemical reaction is used up the time it is put to use. Due to this, the chemical reaction in primary cells cannot be reversed.
Secondary cells are yet another type of battery cell that differ due to their ability to be recharged after initial use. They are composed of wet cells and molten lava.
Secondary cells are recharged after the initial discharge of energy. This disposition of energy allows their chemical charge to be reversed, unlike that of primary cells.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | Primary Cell | Secondary Cell |
|---|---|---|
| Energy conversion | The chemical energy in the primary cell is turned into electrical energy. | The chemical energy turns into electrical energy that gets turned into chemical energy again. |
| Current level | Exclusive to weak currents. | Supplies weak and high levels of current. |
| Recharge | A primary cell cannot be recharged. | Is capable of being recharged more than once. |
| Discharge | Carries a slow discharge, by comparison. | Comparatively higher discharge. |
| Price | Less pricey | Expensive |
What is a Primary Cell?
A primary cell is a battery used in situations requiring lightweight energy. These cells can be utilized just once.
This quality renders them incapable of being recharged again for another use.
The electrode reaction is complete upon its initial use, and the reaction thus created cannot be reversed.
The primary cells convert chemical energy into electrical energy for a brief period of time. They are praised for their internal resistance and highly tolerant primary cells.
They possess a high density and can only supply weak current links. These cells do not contain fluids in their composition and hence are also known as dry cells.
Primary cells are galvanic cells with a small lifetime and are used in gadgets where the cells have to be frequently changed.
Since the primary cells cannot be recharged for another use, they are discarded after achieving their potential.
Despite their limited use, primary cells continue to be a popular part of manufacturing several consumer durables.
They have a slower discharge and can be used easily and effectively. Primary cells are meant for one-time use; they are much cheaper than their counterparts.
Therefore, this makes primary cells a popular choice when traveling.
With their simple and efficient design, primary cells are used to make smoke detectors, door openers in garages, Daniel cells, etc.
What is a Secondary Cell?
A secondary cell refers to a cell or a battery that can be recharged via electrical means after the complete discharge of the energy. This quality makes secondary cells reusable, unlike that of primary cells.
Secondary cells are recharged by conducting electric current through the opposite direction of the discharge; this renders the battery ready to be used again.
The secondary cell comprises wet cells and molten salt; therefore, they are not dry cells.
They have a lower resistance internally. This ability makes secondary cells ideal for conducting current with a higher energy level.
Secondary cells can also conduct weak energy through their circuit.
During initial discharge, the chemical energy must be converted into electrical energy for various purposes. Secondary cells have to be recharged after use.
When recharged, the secondary cell converts the energy back into chemical energy used for further purposes.
The above phenomenon talks about the reversible chemical energy conversion that secondary cells are capable of.
Secondary cells are designed in a much more complex way to withstand the high and regular flow of current that secondary cells are subjected to.
Due to their prolonged lifetime, secondary batteries, also known as rechargeable batteries, are used in applications that demand a high drain.
Secondary cells are expensive when compared to primary cells.
Main Differences Between Primary Cell and Secondary Cell
- Primary cells can be used only once, after which their chemical discharge is used up. Secondary cells have the option of being recharged electrically to enable further use.
- Primary cells show a slower discharge and have high-density energy. Secondary cells, in comparison, have a lower energy density.
- Primary cells only support low currents, whereas its counterpart is capable of conducting different current levels.
- Primary cells are limited to one use, therefore, have a short lifetime. Secondary cells are used repeatedly and can be utilized for a longer period.
- Primary cells have a simple design and are cheap. Secondary cells possess a complicated design and have a higher price.
- https://internal-journal.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpls.2012.00204/full
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF01007699
Last Updated : 13 February, 2024
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Piyush Yadav has spent the past 25 years working as a physicist in the local community. He is a physicist passionate about making science more accessible to our readers. He holds a BSc in Natural Sciences and Post Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science. You can read more about him on his bio page.
This explanation makes the difference clear between primary and secondary cells. I am inclined to use secondary cells now.
Primary cells still have their place in the market, especially for limited-use applications. Seems like both types have their unique advantages.
People need to further understand the environmental impact before choosing one over the other.
I agree, each type has its own usefulness depending on the circumstances.
The part about the current level of primary and secondary cells is really informative.
Yes, I found that really helpful too. I learned a lot about different cells.
This article is enlightening. It’s essential to know these details about batteries.
The comparison table really helps in summarizing the differences between primary and secondary cells.
Absolutely, it’s a great way to visualize the pros and cons of each type of battery.
I think primary cells are more cost effective. I don’t need to recharge a battery anyway.