Information on AAA Batteries

Sep 3, 2010
Joe Jaris

AAA rechargeable battery. - Leyo

AAA batteries can be any type of battery manufactured to a specific style. This AAA battery size is one of the most widely used battery sizes.

The “AAA” designation of some batteries refers to the size of the battery. Many types of batteries are manufactured into AAA sizes. A “primary cell” refers to a battery that is designed for one single discharge. AAA “secondary cells” are defined as AAA rechargeable batteries. The market offers both primary and secondary cells that can be purchased in the AAA size.

Types of AAA Batteries

Most types of batteries are available in the AAA size. Consumers can purchase AAA primary and secondary alkaline cells, AAA primary and secondary lithium cells, AAA nickel metal le batterieshydride cells and AAA nickel cadmium cells. All types of AAA batteries including nickel metal hydride rechargeable batteries, lithium batteries and the nickel nickel cadmium battery are 10.5 mm in diameter. Length for all AAA batteries is 44.5 mm and total weight can range from 2.5 to 23 grams.

Facts About AAA Batteries

Some AAA batteries are designed for use in high drain applications. AAA alkaline batteries are not designed for use in high drain devices unlike AAA lithium batteries, which are ideal as digital camera batteries or batteries for other high drain devices. AAA Nickel metal hydride batteries are better for the environment because they do not employ such toxic or flammable chemicals like lithium batteries.

Warnings About AAA Batteries

Almost all types of batteries, including AAA batteries contain chemicals that can contaminate the environment. Alkaline batteries are engineered with chemicals that do not harm the environment. Consumers should properly dispose of their used or unwanted batteries, especially lithium batteries, at a facility that will recycle them. Most types of AAA batteries should never find their way into local landfills because the chemicals used in their construction can easily contaminate the environment.

How Does a Battery Work?

Electrons move from one side of the battery to the other; the movement creates a current of electricity, which can be used to power devices. Batteries contain an electrolyte substance that separates a cathode and an anode. A cathode is located on one end of the battery and an anode is located on the other end of the battery. These electrodes are separated by an electrolyte. Electrons gather together at the anode, travel through the electrolyte and go out at the cathode when a wire is externally connected from the anode to the cathode. This electric current can be tapped into to power devices.