Batteries: Older Than the Lightbulb, Still Progressing

Batteries are an ever-present feature of modern life, powering the tools and gadgets that are so often used every day. A wide variety of batteries now exists, from the distinction between primary and secondary batteries to the many different sizes of primary batteries. At their most basic, batteries use a chemical reaction and convert it to electrical energy, which then powers whatever device they are connected to.

It is traditionally thought that the first battery was created by Count Alessandro Volta in 1798, and in the ensuing years his design was variously improved upon and diversified according to Energizer's official website.

It has been suggested the “Baghdad Battery” may predate this by over a thousand years, but the idea that this artifact was actually an energy source is heavily disputed. Elizabeth Stone, a respected authority on Middle Eastern archeology says in an interview with ScienceDaily, “I don’t know anybody who thinks it’s a real battery in the field [of archaeology]." Right before the 20th century, batteries began to diversify and become commercially available, powering rudimentary electronics like the first flashlights.

Looking forward, what can be expected from batteries? While each new generation of electronics tends to offer greater battery life, lesser charge time, or convenient charging options, batteries have remained relatively stagnant in their function. Many advancements are being researched – things like flexible batteries for smartwatches, electronics powered by friction with a user’s skin, or batteries that charge in a fraction of the present time – but to make these commercially available, there is much work left to do.