During charging, electrical energy from an external source, such as an alternator driven by the car's engine, is used to convert chemical energy into stored energy in the battery's plates and electrolyte. This process involves the conversion of lead sulfate and water into lead dioxide and sulfuric acid.
When the battery is connected to a circuit and a load is applied, such as when starting the car's engine or powering its accessories, the stored chemical energy is released, and a chemical reaction occurs, converting lead dioxide and sulfuric acid back into lead sulfate and water. This chemical reaction generates an electrical current, providing the necessary electrical energy to power the car's systems.
Therefore, while a car battery does not directly convert mechanical energy to electrical energy, it utilizes the alternator and chemical reactions to store and release electrical energy for various purposes in a vehicle.
