How do car batteries work?

Question

Hi all,

I always wondered how a car battery is able to charge cell phones, radio, dashboard and all other things that requiere electricity, and not need to to be recharged for a couple years. Why does it not die out sooner? Can someone please on how it’s able to achieve this curious feat?

Thanks!

In: Engineering

Answer 1

Every car has an alternator. An alternator generates electricity. The alternator in your car is spun up by the engine and directly charges your car battery. Over time the battery will charge less and less because the more it is used the less total charge it can hold, referred to as degradation. If the alternator in our car dies, the battery will run out within a few days or even hours and the car will not be drivable.