Electrochemical energy storage devices experience reduced performance at low temperatures. For example, a car battery may struggle to provide sufficient power to start an engine on a frigid morning. This phenomenon stems from the chemical reactions within the battery slowing down as temperature decreases, affecting ion mobility and overall electrical conductivity.
Understanding how temperature affects electrochemical power sources is crucial for reliable operation of various technologies, from portable electronics to electric vehicles and backup power systems. Historically, limitations in cold-weather performance have hindered the adoption of battery-powered devices in extreme climates. Advances in battery chemistry and thermal management systems are continually improving low-temperature performance, expanding the usability of these essential power sources.