Find out how lithium-ion batteries work, and the issues surrounding their manufacture and disposal

An image showing old mobile phones

Source: © Royal Society of Chemistry

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are an inescapable part of modern lives. They power everything from laptops and phones to cars. This worksheet for 14–16 students introduces their chemistry and invites students to consider the environmental issues surrounding their manufacture and disposal. The questions link well with any study of life-cycle assessment and provide context for the study of batteries. 

Use this resource with your class alongside the Education in Chemistry article, New power, old batteries