Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Chemistry

Chapter

Physical: Electro Chemistry

Question:

Which cell is used in automobiles and inverters?

Options:

Mercury cell

Dry cell

Lead storage cell

Fuel cell

Correct Answer:

Lead storage cell

Explanation:

The correct answer is Option (3) → Lead storage cell

Lead storage cell produces electricity continuously.

Option-wise

Option 1: Mercury cell

A mercury cell is a primary cell.

  • Non-rechargeable
  • Small size
  • Supplies low current
  • Used in watches, calculators, hearing aids

Vehicles need repeated charging from alternator - mercury cell cannot be recharged. So it cannot be used.

Option 2: Dry cell

Dry cells (Leclanché cells):

  • Primary cells
  • Low capacity
  • Cannot provide large starting current needed to start engines
  • Used in torches, remotes, toys

Cars need very high current briefly to crank the engine - dry cells cannot deliver that.

Option 3: Lead storage cell

Lead storage cell (lead-acid battery):

  • Secondary (rechargeable)
  • Can deliver very high current
  • Works through reversible reactions:

Uses:

  • Automobiles (starting, lighting, ignition)
  • Inverters (power backup)

This exactly matches the need.

Option 4: Fuel cell

Fuel cells:

  • Need continuous fuel supply ($H_2, O_2$)
  • Used in spacecraft and experimental vehicles
  • Not conventional storage batteries

Home inverters and cars do not operate on fuel cells in standard systems.