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

A car battery will recharge itself while you’re driving around using the alternator in your car (basically an electric generator). It uses up a significant portion of its charge every time you turn over the starter motor but this is replenished within seconds/ minutes.