Question

What type of cell is mercury cell? Why is it more advantageous than dry cell?

Hint:

Mercury cells are highly efficient, reliable, and are used in devices requiring a constant voltage, such as hearing aids and watches.

Answer 1

Mercury cell is a type of electrochemical cell known as a primary cell, where the electrochemical reaction occurs only once, and it cannot be recharged. The cell uses the reaction between mercury(II) oxide (\(\text{HgO}\)) and zinc (\(\text{Zn}\)) to generate electrical energy. Mercury cells are more advantageous than dry cells because they have a long shelf life, deliver stable voltage, and operate efficiently in a wide range of temperatures. Additionally, they are less prone to leakage compared to dry cells.