Compared to Ni-Cd batteries, which description of lead-acid batteries is accurate?

Compared to Ni-Cd batteries, which description of lead-acid batteries is accurate?

• A. Lead acid: lighter; Use: handheld devices; Charge: constant current; Cost: high
• B. Lead acid: heavier; Use: trucks/forklifts; Charge: constant voltage with thermal management; Cost: low
• C. Lead acid: heavier; Use: trucks/forklifts; Charge: constant current; Cost: high
• D. Lead acid: heavier; Use: trucks/forklifts; Charge: pulse charging; Cost: high

Answer: (B)

Lead-acid batteries have lower energy density, so they weigh more than Ni-Cd units for the same stored energy. That extra weight makes them well-suited for vehicles and heavy equipment like trucks and forklifts, where cost and durability matter more than being light. Charging a lead-acid pack is typically done with a constant-voltage profile while actively managing temperature to prevent overheating and gas buildup; this thermal control is essential to protect the battery and extend its life. Because of inexpensive materials and manufacturing, lead-acid is generally lower in cost for large-scale use compared with Ni-Cd. The other descriptions either misstate the weight, the typical application, the charging method, or the cost.

Lead-acid batteries have lower energy density, so they weigh more than Ni-Cd units for the same stored energy. That extra weight makes them well-suited for vehicles and heavy equipment like trucks and forklifts, where cost and durability matter more than being light. Charging a lead-acid pack is typically done with a constant-voltage profile while actively managing temperature to prevent overheating and gas buildup; this thermal control is essential to protect the battery and extend its life. Because of inexpensive materials and manufacturing, lead-acid is generally lower in cost for large-scale use compared with Ni-Cd. The other descriptions either misstate the weight, the typical application, the charging method, or the cost.