Chapter 21, Problem 9RAT

Why does a battery that has thick zinc walls last longer than one that has thin zinc walls?

(a) Thick zinc walls prevent the battery from overheating.

(b) Thicker zinc walls prevent electrons from being lost into the surrounding environment.

(c) Thicker zinc walls last longer at holding in the battery acid.

(d) The zinc walls are transformed into zinc ions as the battery provides electricity.

To determine

The correct option for the statement “Why does a battery that has thick zinc walls last longer than one that has thin zinc walls?”

Answer to Problem 9RAT

The correct option for the statement “Why does a battery that has thick zinc walls last longer than one that has thin zinc walls?” is option (d).

Explanation of Solution

The electrons are needed for conducting the electricity. In batteries, the metal gives the electrons. The metal is oxidized and then the produced electrons conduct the electricity.

The thick zinc walls have more amount of metal so it will provide more electrons on oxidation than the thin zinc walls.

So, battery with thick zinc walls lasts longer than the battery with thin zinc walls.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the correct option for the statement “Why does a battery that has thick zinc walls last longer than one that has thin zinc walls?” is option (d).