Ham Radio General Class Practice Test

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What is the minimum allowable discharge voltage for maximum life of a standard 12 volt lead acid battery?

6 volts
8.5 volts
10.5 volts
12 volts

The correct answer is: 10.5 volts

The minimum allowable discharge voltage for maximum life of a standard 12-volt lead acid battery is typically around 10.5 volts. Discharging a lead acid battery below this voltage can cause significant damage to the battery, reducing its capacity and overall lifespan. Lead acid batteries are designed to operate within a specific voltage range. When fully charged, a 12-volt lead acid battery can reach around 12.6 to 12.8 volts. As the battery discharges, it is vital to keep the voltage above 10.5 volts to prevent sulfation—a process that occurs when lead sulfate crystals form on the battery plates, which can become permanent if the battery is left in a discharged state for too long. Maintaining this minimum voltage helps ensure the chemical reactions within the battery can occur normally and prevents degradation of the battery's internal components. Therefore, keeping the voltage above this level is crucial for prolonging the life and maintaining the performance of the lead acid battery.