Definition
A type of primary (non-rechargeable) electrochemical cell that produces electrical energy through a chemical reaction between a zinc anode and a manganese dioxide cathode in an alkaline electrolyte, typically potassium hydroxide. Each cell produces approximately 1.5 volts.
Plain English
A common type of battery cell that uses a chemical mixture (an alkaline solution) to produce electricity. Each one puts out about 1.5 volts.
Context Anchor
Seen in aircraft electrical-system study, battery discussions, and portable equipment such as flashlights, headsets, and handheld radios.
Derivation
Alkaline' comes from the Arabic 'al-qaliy,' meaning 'the ashes,' referring to the basic (non-acidic) chemical nature of the electrolyte inside. The name distinguishes it from acid-based cells like the lead-acid battery in many aircraft.
Why Pilots Care
Alkaline cells provide long shelf life and reliable power for emergency equipment and handheld radios when aircraft electrical systems are unavailable.
Intuition Check
Do not read cell as meaning the whole battery in every case. A battery may contain one cell or several cells connected together.
Example Sentence 1
The pilot replaced the alkaline cells in the flashlight before stowing it in the survival kit.
Example Sentence 2
During the preflight inspection, the mechanic verified that the ELT alkaline cells had not exceeded their service life.