What is "primary cell"

n. an electric cell that generates an electromotive force by an irreversible conversion of chemical to electrical energy; cannot be recharged [syn: voltaic cell, galvanic cell] [ant: electrolytic cell]

A primary cell is a battery that is designed to be used once and discarded, and not recharged with electricity and reused like a secondary cell ( rechargeable battery). In general, the electrochemical reaction occurring in the cell is not reversible, rendering the cell unrechargeable. As a primary cell is used, chemical reactions in the battery use up the chemicals that generate the power; when they are gone, the battery stops producing electricity and is useless. In contrast, in a secondary cell, the reaction can be reversed by running a current into the cell with a battery charger to recharge it, regenerating the chemical reactants. Primary cells are made in a range of standard sizes to power small household appliances.