eli5 how do batteries get more charge when you leave them for awhile?
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When a battery discharges, liquid or gelled chemicals in the battery react with metal foil in order to release electrons. If the battery is heavily drained, the chemicals closest to the metals surfaces are depleted. When the battery rests, chemicals farther away can migrate closer to the metal, and release another burst of energy later.
It is slightly more complicated, and some batteries don’t use the metals themselves, but substances coated onto metals, but the principle is the same. Warming a battery will also help you eke out more energy from it, as this makes the chemicals move easier. If you decide to try this, don’t ever get a battery wet or more than lukewarm, some may explode or ignite.
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