Carbon-zinc batteries have a higher internal resistance than alkaline batteries. They are often called “heavy duty” and come in AA and AAA sizes. This higher internal resistance can result in lower performance in high-drain uses. Choose the battery type based on your performance needs and budget.
Different factors influence internal resistance in batteries. For instance, battery age and type significantly contribute. Older batteries typically have higher internal resistance due to corrosion and wear of internal components. Similarly, lithium-ion batteries often have lower internal resistance compared to lead-acid batteries, enhancing their efficiency.
Higher internal resistance can lead to overheating, increased energy loss, and poor overall efficiency. This inefficiency affects applications that require consistent power delivery, like electric vehicles and portable electronics. High resistance can also reduce the battery’s lifespan, prompting users to replace it sooner.
Understanding which battery will have a higher internal resistance is crucial. It impacts performance, efficiency, and suitability for various applications. Evaluating internal resistance helps consumers make informed choices.
Next, we will explore methods to measure internal resistance and strategies to minimize it, ensuring optimal battery performance in practical applications.
What is Internal Resistance in Batteries and Why Is It Important?
Internal resistance in batteries refers to the opposition to the flow of electric current within the battery. It is a critical parameter that affects the voltage, efficiency, and overall performance of the battery during charging and discharging cycles.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) defines internal resistance as the resistance that the current experiences when passing through the battery’s internal components. This includes the electrolyte, electrodes, and separators. Understanding this resistance is vital for evaluating battery performance and lifespan.
Internal resistance encompasses various aspects such as resistive losses, charge transfer resistance, and concentration polarization. These factors influence the battery’s ability to deliver power efficiently, impacting applications in electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, and portable electronics.
According to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), internal resistance can be affected by temperature, state of charge, and aging. For instance, as a battery ages, its internal resistance typically increases, leading to reduced efficiency and capacity.
Several factors contribute to increased internal resistance, including electrode degradation, electrolyte depletion, and changes in temperature. High temperatures can accelerate degradation, while low temperatures can increase resistance.
Research indicates that a higher internal resistance can reduce a battery’s efficiency by up to 30%. The Battery University states that understanding and managing internal resistance is essential to improve battery design, especially as energy demands increase.
High internal resistance leads to reduced performance in electric vehicles, longer charging times, and increased energy losses. It can also impact the reliability of electronic devices that depend on batteries for operation.
From an economic perspective, high internal resistance can lead to higher operational costs in industries reliant on battery technology, affecting profitability. Environmentally, it can result in increased waste due to more frequent battery replacements.
Examples include the performance degradation observed in lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles, which can lead to decreased driving range and increased charging frequency.
To mitigate issues related to internal resistance, organizations like the U.S. Department of Energy recommend the use of advanced materials and battery management systems. Innovations in solid-state batteries and improved electrolyte formulations can enhance performance.
Best practices for reducing internal resistance include maintaining optimal operating temperatures, ensuring regular maintenance, and employing advanced electrode materials. These strategies can significantly enhance battery lifespan and efficiency.
What Factors Influence the Internal Resistance of Different Battery Types?
The internal resistance of different battery types is influenced by factors such as temperature, material composition, battery design, and chemistry.
- Temperature
- Material Composition
- Battery Design
- Chemistry
- Age and Cycle Life
- State of Charge (SoC)
These factors interact in complex ways to determine the overall internal resistance of a battery.
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Temperature: Temperature significantly influences internal resistance. Higher temperatures generally reduce internal resistance by increasing ionic mobility within the battery electrolyte. Conversely, lower temperatures can lead to increased resistance and reduced performance. A study by Baranowsky et al. (2020) indicated that a lithium-ion battery experiences an approximate 25% increase in internal resistance at 0°C compared to 25°C.
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Material Composition: The materials used in battery construction affect internal resistance. Materials with higher ionic conductivity, like certain lithium salts, lower the resistance. For example, lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) has different resistance characteristics than lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4). Research by Xu et al. (2019) showed that LiFePO4 typically presents higher internal resistance under similar conditions.
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Battery Design: The physical design of the battery, including size and surface area, influences internal resistance. A smaller battery with a high surface area allows for better ionic movement, thus reducing resistance. For instance, cylindrical cells may perform differently than pouch cells due to their construction and thermal dissipation properties. According to Zhang et al. (2018), various cell designs also impact thermal efficiency and resistance.
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Chemistry: Different battery chemistries have unique internal resistance characteristics. For example, nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries generally exhibit lower internal resistance compared to lead-acid batteries. The chemical reactions involved also impact resistance. A 2021 study by Gupta analyzed various chemistries and found that solid-state batteries tend to have lower internal resistance than traditional liquid electrolyte systems.
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Age and Cycle Life: As batteries age, internal resistance typically increases due to degradation of components and build-up of byproducts. This degradation can significantly affect the performance and longevity of the battery. A report from the Battery University notes that lithium-ion batteries lose their capacity and increase internal resistance as the number of cycles increases.
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State of Charge (SoC): The internal resistance can vary with the battery’s state of charge. Resistance is often higher at both fully charged and deeply discharged states compared to a mid-range state. According to research published by the Journal of Power Sources, this phenomenon can impact the efficiency of power delivery during applications that require quick bursts of energy.
Overall, understanding these factors provides insights into battery performance and efficiency, guiding improvements in technology and battery applications.
How Does Temperature Affect a Battery’s Internal Resistance?
Temperature affects a battery’s internal resistance significantly. As temperature increases, the internal resistance typically decreases. This occurs because higher temperatures enhance the mobility of ions within the electrolyte. Ion mobility refers to how easily ions move through the liquid inside the battery. As ions move more freely, they can carry electricity more efficiently. Conversely, as temperature decreases, the internal resistance tends to increase. Lower temperatures reduce ion mobility, leading to slower chemical reactions inside the battery. These changes in internal resistance impact the battery’s overall performance, including its capacity and efficiency. In summary, higher temperatures generally lower internal resistance, while lower temperatures increase it, affecting a battery’s ability to deliver energy effectively.
What Role Do Battery Chemistry and Composition Play in Internal Resistance?
Battery chemistry and composition significantly influence internal resistance. Different materials and structures directly affect how easily electric current can flow through a battery, impacting its efficiency and performance.
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Types of battery chemistries:
– Lithium-ion
– Nickel-metal hydride
– Lead-acid
– Sodium-ion
– Solid-state batteries -
Factors influencing internal resistance:
– Electrode materials
– Electrolyte type
– Temperature effects
– Manufacturing quality
– Age and cycle life of the battery -
Perspectives on internal resistance:
– Lithium-ion batteries generally offer lower internal resistance compared to lead-acid batteries; however, lead-acid may be preferred for specific applications due to cost.
– Solid-state batteries promise lower internal resistance and higher efficiency but are not yet widely adopted.
Understanding how battery chemistry and composition affect internal resistance aids in optimizing battery performance across various applications.
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Battery Chemistry:
Battery chemistry refers to the combination of materials used in the electrodes and electrolyte. Lithium-ion batteries, for instance, contain lithium compounds in the cathode and graphite in the anode. They typically exhibit lower internal resistance due to these materials’ superior conductivity. In contrast, lead-acid batteries use lead dioxide and sponge lead, resulting in higher internal resistance. A study from MIT in 2021 highlights that lithium-ion batteries can have internal resistance values in the range of 50-100 milliohms, whereas lead-acid batteries can exceed 150 milliohms. -
Electrode Materials:
Electrode materials significantly influence internal resistance. High surface area materials, like activated carbon used in supercapacitors, can decrease internal resistance compared to bulk materials. The choice of electrode materials, such as nickel or cobalt in lithium-ion batteries, also affects the overall ion conductivity and electron transport processes. More conductive materials facilitate better current flow, which reduces internal resistance. -
Electrolyte Type:
Electrolyte plays a vital role in determining internal resistance. Liquid electrolytes usually offer lower resistance than solid ones because they allow easier ion movement. Recent advancements in solid-state technology promise lower internal resistance and higher energy densities. However, common liquid electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries can degrade over time, which increases internal resistance. Research led by Professor Yoshio Nishi in 2020 confirmed that polymer electrolytes can reduce internal resistance but may compromise energy density. -
Temperature Effects:
Temperature can affect internal resistance significantly. Higher temperatures typically enhance ionic conductivity, resulting in lower internal resistance. Conversely, cold temperatures slow down ion mobility, increasing resistance. According to a study by the University of California, Berkeley in 2022, thermal management becomes critical in battery performance; internal resistance can double at temperatures below 0°C, which adversely affects efficiency and performance. -
Manufacturing Quality:
The quality of battery manufacturing can have a direct impact on internal resistance. Imperfections in the electrode structure, impurities in materials, or poor assembly can lead to increased resistance. A 2023 report by the International Electrotechnical Commission indicated that strict quality control standards during production could minimize this issue, leading to batteries with more consistent performance. -
Age and Cycle Life:
As batteries age and undergo charge-discharge cycles, internal resistance tends to increase. This phenomenon occurs due to the buildup of solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layers and other degradation processes. A study at Stanford University in 2022 demonstrated that internal resistance in lithium-ion batteries could increase by as much as 30% over 500 cycles, underscoring the importance of cycle management to sustain performance.
In conclusion, battery chemistry and composition are paramount in determining internal resistance, affecting the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the battery in various applications.
Which Battery Types Typically Exhibit Higher Internal Resistance?
The battery types that typically exhibit higher internal resistance include nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries, nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, and older lead-acid batteries.
- Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) Batteries
- Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries
- Older Lead-Acid Batteries
These battery types tend to have higher internal resistance due to their chemical composition and construction methods. Understanding the characteristics of each type can help in evaluating their efficiency and performance for specific applications.
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Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) Batteries:
Nickel-cadmium batteries typically exhibit higher internal resistance due to their construction and chemistry. NiCd batteries use nickel oxide hydroxide and metallic cadmium as electrodes, which can lead to the buildup of cadmium crystals over time. This buildup increases resistance. According to research by Zhang et al. (2019), NiCd batteries can demonstrate internal resistance values ranging from 20 to 30 mΩ, affecting overall efficiency during discharge. -
Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) Batteries:
Nickel-metal hydride batteries also show higher internal resistance compared to lithium-ion batteries. The internal resistance in NiMH batteries is primarily due to the complex electrochemical reactions involved in charging and discharging. As indicated by a study from the Journal of Power Sources (Chen et al., 2021), the internal resistance for NiMH batteries can range from 12 to 25 mΩ. This resistance impacts the battery’s performance in high-drain applications, such as power tools or electric vehicles. -
Older Lead-Acid Batteries:
Older lead-acid batteries possess higher internal resistance compared to their newer counterparts, like advanced lead-acid or lithium-based batteries. The internal resistance of lead-acid batteries can rise due to factors such as sulfation and corrosion of the electrodes. The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI, 2020) notes that older lead-acid batteries can demonstrate internal resistances around 10 to 50 mΩ. This increased resistance results in decreased efficiency and capacity, especially in deep-cycle applications.
Understanding the internal resistance of these battery types is crucial for applications requiring reliable energy delivery. Higher internal resistance generally results in greater energy loss and reduced performance under load.
Are Lead-Acid Batteries Generally Associated with Higher Internal Resistance?
Yes, lead-acid batteries are generally associated with higher internal resistance compared to other battery types, such as lithium-ion batteries. This higher internal resistance can lead to reduced efficiency and decreased power output during heavy load conditions.
Lead-acid batteries exhibit varying levels of internal resistance, typically ranging from 5 to 50 milliohms. In contrast, lithium-ion batteries generally have a lower range of approximately 1 to 10 milliohms. This difference arises from the construction and chemical processes of the batteries. Lead-acid batteries use a liquid electrolyte and lead plates, which can create more resistance internally. Lithium-ion batteries use a solid electrolyte and more advanced materials, resulting in better energy transfer and lower resistance.
The positive aspects of lead-acid batteries include their low manufacturing cost and widespread availability. They are often used in applications such as automotive starting and uninterruptible power supplies. According to the Battery University, lead-acid batteries are capable of delivering high surge currents, making them effective for short bursts of power. They also have a reliable performance history, making them a trusted choice for many industries.
On the downside, the higher internal resistance of lead-acid batteries can lead to inefficiencies. This resistance causes energy loss in the form of heat, which can reduce the overall runtime and lifespan of the battery. A study by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) in 2021 highlighted that the higher internal resistance can lead to significant voltage drops under load, reducing the operational efficiency of lead-acid batteries, especially in high-demand applications.
In light of these considerations, it is advisable to assess your specific needs before choosing a battery type. For applications requiring high efficiency and long life, consider opting for lithium-ion batteries despite their higher upfront cost. For applications where cost is a critical factor, and high surge current is essential, lead-acid batteries may still be the right choice. Always consider the balance between initial investment, performance requirements, and long-term usage when making your decision.
How Does the Internal Resistance of Lithium-Ion Batteries Compare to Other Types?
The internal resistance of lithium-ion batteries is generally lower than that of many other battery types, which contributes to their efficiency and performance. The following table compares the internal resistance of lithium-ion batteries with other common battery types:
| Battery Type | Typical Internal Resistance (mΩ) | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lithium-Ion | 10 – 30 | High energy density, low self-discharge | Cost, thermal stability |
| Nickel-Metal Hydride (NiMH) | 50 – 100 | Good energy density, less toxic | Higher self-discharge, lower cycle life |
| Lead-Acid | 100 – 200 | Low cost, robust | Heavy, low energy density |
| Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) | 50 – 150 | Durable, good performance at low temperatures | Toxicity, memory effect |
| Solid-State | 5 – 20 | Potential for higher safety, energy density | Currently expensive, limited availability |
This comparison shows that lithium-ion batteries tend to have a lower internal resistance than both lead-acid and nickel-cadmium batteries, making them more efficient for applications requiring high power output.
What Are the Effects of Higher Internal Resistance on Battery Performance?
Higher internal resistance negatively affects battery performance. It leads to reduced efficiency, increased heat generation, and diminished overall capacity.
Key effects of higher internal resistance include:
1. Reduced energy output.
2. Increased heat generation.
3. Decreased efficiency during charge and discharge cycles.
4. Shortened battery lifespan.
5. Poor performance in high-drain applications.
Understanding these effects highlights the importance of internal resistance in battery technology. Each point elucidates how it impacts different aspects of battery functioning.
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Reduced Energy Output: Higher internal resistance leads to a drop in the voltage at which energy is delivered. This results in less usable power from the battery. For example, a battery with high internal resistance may provide only 80% of its rated output. Research conducted by the Journal of Power Sources in 2020 indicates that the energy loss due to internal resistance can average around 10-15% in lithium-ion batteries.
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Increased Heat Generation: High internal resistance generates more heat during operation. This heat can lead to overheating, which may damage the battery and affect performance. A study by the Electrochemical Society in 2019 found that batteries with lower internal resistance operate at significantly cooler temperatures, enhancing their safety and longevity.
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Decreased Efficiency During Charge and Discharge Cycles: Higher internal resistance reduces the efficiency of charging and discharging processes. For instance, a battery might take longer to charge and might not fully discharge its capacity. The Los Alamos National Laboratory reported that batteries with significant internal resistance showed up to 20% longer charging times.
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Shortened Battery Lifespan: Increased internal resistance can accelerate the degradation of battery components. Thus, it may lead to a decreased lifecycle overall. According to research by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in 2021, batteries with excessive internal resistance could experience a lifespan reduction of up to 30%.
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Poor Performance in High-Drain Applications: In applications requiring quick bursts of energy, such as in electric vehicles, high internal resistance can hinder performance. This results in slower acceleration and reduced power supply. A 2018 study by the International Journal of Energy Research showed that electric vehicles operating on batteries with lower internal resistance had significantly improved performance metrics.
In conclusion, understanding the effects of higher internal resistance on battery performance is crucial. It impacts energy output, efficiency, heat generation, lifespan, and application suitability. Reducing internal resistance is therefore a significant goal in battery technology advancements.
How Does Internal Resistance Impact Overall Battery Efficiency and Capacity?
Internal resistance significantly impacts overall battery efficiency and capacity. It refers to the opposition that a battery offers to the flow of electric current. Higher internal resistance leads to greater energy loss in the form of heat. This inefficiency reduces the battery’s overall capacity because less energy is available for actual work.
When internal resistance increases, the usable voltage decreases. This phenomenon means that a battery can provide less power to devices. Consequently, devices may not function optimally, and runtime may shorten.
In practical terms, if a battery has high internal resistance, it will experience a drop in performance during high-demand situations. This drop occurs because the internal resistance consumes part of the energy meant for the device.
Therefore, managing internal resistance is crucial for ensuring maximum efficiency and capacity in batteries. Reducing internal resistance can lead to better performance, extended runtime, and improved energy output. In summary, internal resistance directly correlates to battery performance, where increased resistance leads to decreased efficiency and capacity.
What Are the Long-Term Implications of High Internal Resistance on Battery Lifespan?
High internal resistance in batteries can significantly reduce their lifespan and overall performance by generating excess heat and minimizing efficiency.
The long-term implications of high internal resistance on battery lifespan include the following:
- Decreased energy efficiency
- Increased heat generation
- Shorter cycle life
- Diminished capacity retention
- Potential safety hazards
Understanding these implications is crucial for optimizing battery performance and safety in various applications.
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Decreased Energy Efficiency: High internal resistance leads to substantial energy losses during charging and discharging cycles. This inefficiency occurs due to increased voltage drops across the battery’s internal components, resulting in lower available energy for the device. Studies show that batteries with significant internal resistance can lose up to 30% of their total capacity during operation (Liu et al., 2021).
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Increased Heat Generation: High internal resistance generates excessive heat during battery operation. This heat can further exacerbate internal reactions, leading to thermal runaway in certain types of batteries, particularly lithium-ion types. A report by Cheng et al. (2020) highlights that elevated temperatures can reduce battery lifespan and may even lead to catastrophic failure if not managed properly.
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Shorter Cycle Life: The cycle life of a battery refers to the number of complete charge and discharge cycles it can undergo before its capacity falls below a usable level. High internal resistance often accelerates degradation processes, resulting in a significantly reduced cycle life. Research from Newell et al. (2019) indicates that batteries with low internal resistance can offer up to twice the cycle life of their high-resistance counterparts.
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Diminished Capacity Retention: High internal resistance adversely affects a battery’s ability to retain its charge capacity over time. This deterioration can lead to a phenomenon called capacity fade, where the available energy decreases significantly with each charge cycle. Dunning and Baxter (2021) found that batteries with high internal resistance could lose over 40% of their capacity within a few years of operation under optimal conditions.
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Potential Safety Hazards: The combination of heat generation and energy inefficiency due to high internal resistance may lead to safety hazards, such as swelling, leakage, or even explosions in severe cases. Regulatory bodies like the United Nations Environment Programme emphasize that managing internal resistance is critical to ensuring battery safety for consumer electronics and electric vehicles (UNEP, 2022).
In conclusion, high internal resistance presents numerous challenges that can seriously impact battery lifespan and safety. Thus, understanding and mitigating these factors is vital for enhancing battery technology and performance.
How Can Internal Resistance Be Accurately Measured in Different Batteries?
Internal resistance in batteries can be accurately measured using various methods such as the AC impedance technique, DC discharge method, and ohmic drop measurement. These techniques provide insights into a battery’s performance and efficiency.
The AC impedance technique measures the internal resistance by applying an alternating current to the battery and observing its response. It captures both the resistive and reactive components of impedance. The study by Sahu et al. (2020) demonstrated that this method can accurately assess internal resistance across different battery chemistries.
The DC discharge method involves measuring voltage drop under a known load current. The resistance can be calculated using Ohm’s Law, where resistance equals voltage divided by current. Research by Plett (2015) indicated that this method is particularly useful in evaluating lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries, providing direct correlations between load and performance.
The ohmic drop measurement is done by assessing the voltage difference between open-circuit and loaded conditions. This difference indicates the internal resistance caused by the battery’s electrochemical processes. A study published in the Journal of Power Sources in 2019 emphasized the relevance of this measurement for high-capacity batteries, highlighting its importance in estimating battery life and performance.
Each of these methodologies provides valuable data on internal resistance, influencing the selection and application of batteries for specific uses. Accurate measurement of internal resistance is critical for understanding battery efficiency, longevity, and overall performance.
What Strategies Can Be Implemented to Manage and Reduce Internal Resistance in Batteries?
The strategies that can be implemented to manage and reduce internal resistance in batteries include material optimization, structural redesign, temperature management, and usage patterns.
- Material optimization
- Structural redesign
- Temperature management
- Usage patterns
To explore these strategies effectively, each method presents unique advantages and challenges, revealing diverse perspectives on battery performance and efficiency.
1. Material Optimization:
Material optimization involves selecting and designing battery materials to minimize internal resistance. This can be achieved by using high-conductivity materials, such as advanced electrolytes and modified electrodes. A study by Wang et al. (2021) found that using nanostructured materials can reduce internal resistance significantly. For example, lithium-silicon composites offer improved charge capacity and lower resistance compared to traditional lithium-cobalt oxide materials.
2. Structural Redesign:
Structural redesign focuses on enhancing the physical layout and design of the battery components. By modifying the electrode structure and the arrangement of cells, manufacturers can aid ion transport and decrease resistance. For instance, the use of 3D-printed electrodes has shown promise in improving energy efficiency while reducing resistance (Smith et al., 2020). This technique can also reveal conflicting opinions, as some experts argue that increased complexity may lead to manufacturing challenges.
3. Temperature Management:
Temperature management plays a critical role in reducing internal resistance in batteries. High temperatures can increase resistance, while low temperatures can hinder performance. Implementing thermal management systems can help maintain optimal operating conditions. Research by Zhang et al. (2022) demonstrates that active cooling techniques can lower resistance and enhance battery life. Critics suggest that these systems can add weight and complexity, impacting portability.
4. Usage Patterns:
Usage patterns refer to how batteries are charged and discharged in real-world applications. Adopting practices such as avoiding deep discharges and utilizing smart charging technologies can help reduce internal resistance. A study by Lee et al. (2019) showed that regulating charge cycles can meaningfully extend battery lifespan. Observers note that consumer behaviors are crucial, as improper use can negate technical advancements.
These strategies collectively address the issue of internal resistance in batteries. Each strategy has its merits and potential drawbacks, presenting a multifaceted approach to improving battery performance.
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