Which of the following battery chemistries is rechargeable?

• A. Carbon-zinc
• B. Alkaline
• C. Nickel-metal hydride, Lithium-ion, and Lead-acid
• D. Silver oxide

Answer: (C)

The correct choice indicates that Nickel-metal hydride, Lithium-ion, and Lead-acid are all rechargeable battery chemistries. Rechargeable batteries are designed to be discharged and then recharged multiple times, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective over the long term compared to single-use batteries.

Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries are commonly used in applications like hybrid vehicles and rechargeable battery packs for electronics; they have a high energy density and a relatively low self-discharge rate. Lithium-ion batteries have become the standard in portable electronics and electric vehicles due to their high efficiency and lightweight characteristics. Lead-acid batteries, while heavier and generally less efficient than other modern rechargeable batteries, are still widely used in automotive applications and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) due to their reliability and cost-effectiveness.

In contrast, carbon-zinc, alkaline, and silver oxide batteries are typically non-rechargeable, meaning they are designed for single use and will lose capacity with each discharge until they are no longer functional. This characteristic makes them less convenient for applications where frequent battery replacement would be impractical.