A primary cell is a battery that is designed to be used once and discarded, and not recharged with electricity and reused like a secondary cell (rechargeable battery). In general, the electrochemicalreaction occurring in the cell is not reversible, rendering the cell unrechargeable.

Primary and Secondary Cells
Primary Cell:
- Primary cells are non-rechargeable cells that cannot be reused once they are discharged.
- These cells are designed for one-time use and are discarded after their energy is depleted.
- Examples of primary cells include alkaline batteries, button cells, and lithium batteries.
- Primary cells have a long shelf life and are ideal for devices that require low maintenance.
Secondary Cell:
- Secondary cells are rechargeable cells that can be reused multiple times by recharging them once they are discharged.
- These cells can be recharged using a charger, making them more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than primary cells.
- Examples of secondary cells include lead-acid batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, and lithium-ion batteries.
- Secondary cells have a higher initial cost but can be more economical in the long run as they can be recharged numerous times.
- These cells are commonly used in devices that require frequent recharging, such as smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles.
Differences between Primary and Secondary Cells:
- Primary cells are single-use, while secondary cells are rechargeable.
- Primary cells have a longer shelf life but are not cost-effective for long-term use.
- Secondary cells may have a higher initial cost but can be more economical in the long run due to their reusability.
- Primary cells are ideal for low-maintenance devices, while secondary cells are suitable for high-energy devices that require frequent recharging.
In conclusion, primary cells are designed for one-time use, while secondary cells are rechargeable and can be reused multiple times. The choice between primary and secondary cells depends on the specific requirements of the device and the long-term cost considerations.