Cells connected in parallel (Figure 8), give the battery a greater current capacity. When cells are connected in parallel, all the positive terminals are connected together, and all the negative terminals are connected together. The total voltage output of a battery connected in parallel is the same as that of a single cell. Cells connected in parallel have the same effect as increasing the size of the electrodes and electrolyte in a single cell. The advantage of connecting cells in parallel is that it will increase the current-carrying capability of the battery.

Figure 8 Cells Connected in Parallel

Cells that cannot be returned to good condition, or recharged after their voltage output has dropped to a value that is not usable, are called primary cells. Dry cells that are used in flashlights and transistor radios (e.g., AA cells, C cells) are examples of primary cells.