A lead acid battery recharges by reversing the chemical reaction that occurs during discharge.
The Recharging Process Explained
During discharge, the lead sulphate from the sulphuric acid becomes bonded to the lead plates. To recharge the battery, this process is reversed. The sulphate goes back into the sulphuric acid electrolyte. As the reference states, the electrical charge is replenished by reversing this reaction. That is, the sulphate goes back into the sulphuric acid and, thus, the battery is recharged.
In essence:
- Discharge: Sulphate moves from the sulphuric acid electrolyte and bonds to the lead plates.
- Recharge: Sulphate moves back from the lead plates into the sulphuric acid electrolyte.
This electrochemical reversal restores the battery's ability to deliver electrical energy.
