Question
How is battery operating time calculated?
Answer Options
- A) Average current divided by capacity in amp-hours
- B) Average current divided by internal resistance
- C) Capacity in amp-hours divided by average current
- D) Internal resistance divided by average current
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
The capacity of a rechargeable battery is measured in Amp-hours (\text{Ah}), which represents the total charge the battery can store and deliver. Battery operating time (the time the battery can power a load) is determined by how quickly that stored charge is consumed by the load’s current draw.
Battery operating time (in hours) is calculated by taking the battery’s capacity in amp-hours and dividing it by the average current drawn by the load (in amperes). For example, a 5 \text{ Ah} battery powering a 0.5 \text{ A} load will last 5 / 0.5 = 10 \text{ hours}. This formula provides a basic estimate, though actual capacity can be reduced by high discharge rates or low temperatures.
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