A simple-yet-elegant device, the modern alkaline battery has only a few main components. The difference in electron affinity between zinc (Zn) and manganese dioxide (MnO2) drives its basic reaction. Because the manganese dioxide has a greater attracting power for electrons, it creates a potential for electrical current.
Container
The container is a standardized shape steel construct that holds the entire battery together. The cathode is part of the container, molded just inside it.
Cathode
The cathode is the part of the battery that will attract electrons if the circuit is closed, thereby causing electricity to flow. In an alkaline battery, the cathode is made of manganese dioxide mixed with carbon (graphite). This material is put in the container first. The cathode will become the positive (+) terminal on top of the battery.
Separator
This material separates the anode from the cathode and keeps the reaction from occurring, unless the powered device is on and the circuit is thereby closed. This material is inserted after the cathode is installed.
Anode
The anode material is made of powdered zinc. The anode, electrolyte, and collector are installed in the battery container last, and then the battery is sealed.
Electrolyte
In an alkaline battery, the electrolyte is potassium hydroxide (KOH) in a solution of water. It is in contact with the anode material and helps ions and electrons flow.
Collector
This is a brass pin in the center of the anode that collects current and leads to the negative (-) terminal on the bottom of the battery.
References
About the Author
Jack Byrom has been writing about science since 2002 and has also worked for the American Chemical Society as a technical editor. He received his Bachelor of Arts in environmental science from Capital University and his research there was published by the National Conference on Undergraduate Research (2004) and "Epistimi" (2004). His articles have been published in the "Columbus Free Press" and "Clarity Magazine."
Photo Credits
Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Windell Oskay