Ellis Gibson (B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering)

Rechargeable batteries can die or lose their ability to hold a charge. This degradation, called cycle life, occurs from repeated charging and discharging. Factors like battery type, capacity, and usage scenarios affect their lifespan. Over time, they can no longer store energy efficiently. When a rechargeable battery dies, it often becomes less effective at holding … Read more

Yes, a rechargeable battery can often be fixed. If any leads are broken or disconnected, carefully de-solder them and reconnect if possible. If that doesn’t work, replace the battery with the exact type. Check for any charging issues before starting. Always use the right tools for safety. If the battery is rechargeable and removable, consider … Read more

No, a Toyota Prius cannot run without a hybrid battery. The hybrid battery is essential for starting the vehicle. If the hybrid battery is dead or failing, the car may still operate, but performance and fuel economy will decrease significantly. This can also harm the hybrid system and other components, including the 12V battery. Without … Read more

The non-plug-in Prius models do not allow charging the main battery. They rely on a smaller auxiliary battery for starting. If the auxiliary battery dies, you can jump-start the car. In contrast, plug-in hybrid Prius models allow charging of the main battery by connecting it to a standard outlet. Proper battery maintenance is important for … Read more

Yes, a power pack can charge a car battery. Connect the power pack to the battery with suitable cables. The power pack transfers energy until the battery is fully charged. Many power packs have an automatic shut-off feature. This feature stops charging when the battery is full, preventing overcharging and improving safety. When considering jump … Read more

A power inverter cannot charge a car battery directly. It converts DC power from the battery to AC power for electric devices. However, it can support battery chargers by providing AC outlets. This allows the charger to function and charge the car battery indirectly and efficiently. To safely charge a car battery, use an inverter … Read more

A portable jump starter can charge a car battery briefly but is not meant for long-term use. It provides a quick burst of power to start the engine, rather than a steady charge for battery maintenance. Use portable jump starters only for jumpstarting vehicles, not as a substitute for a battery charger. Trickle charging is … Read more

A high-capacity portable battery can charge a laptop. Choose a power bank with at least 20,000mAh capacity. It should have a USB-C port that supports Power Delivery. Check the compatibility with your laptop’s charging needs for efficient and convenient charging on the go. Additionally, the output voltage of the power bank is essential. Most laptops … Read more

Yes, a new leadless pacemaker can recharge its battery by changing mechanical energy into electrical energy. This method was highlighted in a proof-of-principle study at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions in 2023, demonstrating significant progress in pacemaker technology and battery management. However, innovative solutions are emerging. Some newer pacemakers are designed with rechargeable batteries. … Read more

Only batteries marked as “rechargeable” can be recharged. Regular alkaline batteries cannot be recharged and may leak or rupture, posing safety risks. For safe recharging, use NiMH batteries made for this. Always check battery labels to ensure they can be recharged. However, there are rechargeable batteries specifically designed for that purpose. Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) and … Read more