Determining a battery’s capacity, expressed in ampere-hours (Ah), involves understanding the relationship between current (amperes) and time (hours). A battery rated for 10 Ah can theoretically supply a current of 1 ampere for 10 hours, 2 amperes for 5 hours, or 10 amperes for 1 hour. This calculation provides a simplified representation; real-world performance can vary due to factors like temperature and discharge rate. For more precise calculations, manufacturers often provide discharge curves that illustrate capacity at different discharge rates.
Accurate capacity assessment is crucial for selecting appropriate batteries for specific applications. Understanding this metric allows for accurate runtime estimations, preventing unexpected power failures. This knowledge is essential in diverse fields, from powering portable electronics to designing robust backup power systems. Historically, battery capacity measurement has evolved alongside battery technology, enabling more precise and reliable energy storage solutions.
