Eli5: What exactly is happening, or changing, in a lithium battery when it “wears out” to cause it to have a diminished capacity?

Question

When you read about it, you’ll learn that the average lithium battery can take about 300-500 charge cycles before its considered worn out. What exactly changes inside the battery for it to reach a worn out status?

In: 217

Answer 1

The liquidy substance inside the battery that facilitates the flow of elections can build up deposits that limit the flow of electrons. That’s about as simple as it can be explained.