Ellis Gibson (B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering)

When connecting a car battery, a small spark is normal due to the quick power supply and amperage flow. However, excessive sparking may signal high impedance contacts or problems in the electrical system, like short circuits or damaged wiring. Always ensure proper connections to reduce arcing and avoid damage. To address this issue, ensure that … Read more

When the battery light or check charging system light appears, the vehicle may rely on battery power. This signals a possible charging failure. If the charging system fails, the battery will not recharge, risking a dead battery. Address this issue quickly to ensure proper vehicle operation and avoid breakdowns. Other reasons for this warning can … Read more

A car battery may charge only to 99% for several reasons. Temperature changes can lower charge levels. The battery management system (BMS) balances cells to avoid overcharging. If cell shorting occurs, it can’t reach full charge voltage. Lastly, battery age impacts overall charging capacity. Another reason for this partial charge relates to temperature. Batteries charge … Read more

Car battery terminals corrode due to a chemical reaction between hydrogen gas and sulfuric acid. As the battery works, hydrogen gas escapes and mixes with moisture, salt, and air. This creates corrosion that can harm battery performance. Regular maintenance and cleaning help keep the battery functioning well. The effects of car battery corrosion are significant. … Read more

An alarm may go off when charging a car battery because of uneven current flow. This unevenness can indicate potential issues with the charging process or electrical components. To ensure vehicle safety, it’s best to inspect or replace the car charger for proper operation. Troubleshooting a dead battery involves several steps. First, check the battery … Read more

A car battery charger makes a clicking noise due to low battery voltage. This issue activates the relay repeatedly. To troubleshoot, disconnect the negative battery terminal to stop the clicking. You can also disconnect the positive terminal and connect the charger directly to the battery posts for more effective charging. If these steps do not … Read more

A car battery has low internal resistance to deliver high current efficiently. This low resistance reduces heat generation and prevents voltage drop, ensuring optimal power delivery. For example, lead acid batteries effectively provide bursts of high current needed for starting engines. This design improves overall energy efficiency in vehicles. High internal resistance can lead to … Read more

A car battery gets a white coating on its terminals due to corrosion. This occurs when hydrogen gas reacts with air, moisture, and salt. The reaction creates a powdery residue, which may appear white. This coating indicates a chemical reaction that can affect the battery’s performance and should be cleaned to maintain function. The effects … Read more

Internal resistance impacts battery capacity and efficiency. Higher internal resistance causes more energy loss as heat, which reduces current handling and battery life. This heat signals wasted energy and speeds up battery degradation. Recognizing these factors aids in choosing the right battery for specific applications. Moreover, internal resistance impacts a battery’s charge and discharge rates. … Read more