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Lithium-Ion Battery Explorer
Understanding charge and discharge in lithium-ion batteries
Core Concepts
Intercalation: Lithium atoms are stored between the layers of graphite forming LiC₆, and metal oxide layers. This model shows 9 Li atoms intercalated horizontally between the electrode layers.
Electrode Identity: "Anode" = oxidation electrode, "Cathode" = reduction electrode. During discharge, left is anode. During charge, left becomes cathode (roles reverse). Terminal polarity (−/+) stays fixed.
Solvation: When Li⁺ enters the electrolyte, it becomes surrounded by solvent molecules (shown as outer circle). The solvation shell disappears when Li⁺ enters the electrode material.
Safety Note: Pure lithium metal is dangerously reactive. In lithium-ion batteries, lithium is safely intercalated with graphite (LiC₆), preventing direct contact with electrolyte.
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Electrochemical Cell
Controls
SoC / DoD
Battery Performance: Voltage vs Capacity
Battery Values
Mode Information
Ready
Battery fully charged. Press Discharge to begin.
Model Simplifications
• Visual clarity: Only Li⁺ ions shown moving through electrolyte. Supporting electrolyte ions (e.g., PF₆⁻) present but not displayed.
• Particle scale: 9 atoms represent full battery capacity for educational clarity.
• Sequential motion: Atoms move one at a time to show individual contributions clearly.
• Ideal conditions: No internal resistance or capacity fade shown.