Galvanic vs. Electrolytic Cells: How to Tell for Your MCAT Success Guide

A galvanic cell, such as a battery, produces electric current from spontaneous reactions, allowing the flow of electrons. An electrolytic cell, however, needs an external voltage source to drive non-spontaneous reactions. This key difference helps identify if a battery is galvanic or electrolytic. To differentiate between these two cell types, remember their energy dynamics. Galvanic … Read more

How to Tell if a Battery is Maintenance Free: A Comprehensive Guide to Checking

Maintenance-free batteries are easy to identify. They lack filler caps and have a large, flat, unremovable cover. You will usually see a label stating “Maintenance Free.” Many new cars are equipped with these batteries, which do not need water refills. This design offers convenience and accessibility for car owners. Next, observe the battery’s appearance. Maintenance-free … Read more

How to Tell If a Battery Is Charged: Easy Ways to Check Charge Levels

To check if a VRLA, AGM, or GEL battery is charged, use a voltmeter to measure the open circuit voltage (OCV) without a load. A reading of 12.6 volts or higher shows a full charge. For flooded batteries, use a hydrometer to check the electrolyte level, which indicates the charging status. Another method is the … Read more