4.3.2 Dry Cells

Last updated at July 13, 2026 by

Dry Cells

  • Dry cells are the most widely used cells today.
  • They are called dry because the electrolyte is a moist paste.
  • A zinc container acts as the negative terminal.
  • A central carbon rod with a metal cap is the positive terminal.
Example 1 — Remote Cell
  • A dry cell is put in a TV remote.
  • It supplies current to the remote.
  • So the remote works.
Example 2 — Used-Up Cell
  • A dry cell is used until it is finished.
  • It cannot be used again.
  • So it has to be disposed of.
Important Points
  • A dry cell is a single use cell.
  • For many uses, rechargeable batteries are now common.
Definition — Dry Cell
A dry cell is a single use cell with a paste electrolyte, a zinc container as the negative terminal, and a carbon rod as the positive terminal.
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