pd in batteries

• Battery


  Two or more cells connected together
• Cells in a battery must be connected in the same direction
• Potential difference of a battery

  The sum of the potential differences of the individual cells
• Calculating potential difference of a battery

  Multiply the potential difference of one cell by the number of cells connected in series
• Battery with 2 cells, each 9V

  • Total potential difference = 2 * 9V = 18V
• Battery with 3 cells, each 9V

  • Total potential difference = 3 * 9V = 27V
• Battery with 2 cells, one 9V and one -9V


  • Total potential difference = 0V
• Battery with 3 cells, 2 at 9V and 1 at -9V

  • Total potential difference = 2 * 9V - 9V = 9V
• You can find more questions on determining the potential difference of batteries in the revision workbook