Why is it Dangerous to Lick a Battery?

Licking a battery can be dangerous for several reasons, ranging from mild electric shocks to serious infections and physical injuries. Understanding these risks is crucial for everyone, particularly children and curious adults who might not be aware of the dangers involved.

Electric Shock: While most household batteries like AA or AAA have a low voltage and are generally safe to touch, a jolt can still be felt, especially with larger batteries such as 9-volt batteries. These batteries can produce a noticeable jolt. Even charged terminals of the 9-volt battery may not shock your skin directly, but the tingling sensation upon placing both terminals on your tongue highlights the potential for electrical interference that can be harmful.

Chemical Exposure

Batteries contain harmful chemicals that can be dangerous if ingested or if they come into contact with mucous membranes in your mouth. For example, leaking batteries can expose you to corrosive materials like potassium hydroxide, which can cause severe damage to the tissues and affect the digestive system.

Infection Risk

Introducing foreign objects or materials into your mouth can increase the risk of infection, especially if the battery is dirty or has been exposed to harmful substances. The risk of contamination is particularly high if the battery is damaged or if it has been lying around in an unsanitary environment.

Physical Injury

There is also a risk of physical injury from sharp edges or leaking components if the battery is damaged. Sharp edges can cause cuts and abrasions, while leaking components can lead to burns or other forms of physical trauma.

Understanding the Sensations

The sensation when licking a battery can vary depending on several factors, including the type of battery and the point of contact. For instance, touching the charged terminals of a 9-volt battery to different body parts will not result in an electric shock. However, when placing these terminals on your tongue, you will likely feel a tingling sensation. This is due to the electrical current passing through the moist tissue of your tongue, which is a conductive medium for electricity.

It is essential to recognize that the voltage and current of the battery play a significant role in determining the level of electric shock. At 1.5 volts (the standard voltage of AAA AA C D batteries), you might not feel anything if you touch only one terminal. However, at 9 volts, the tingling sensation is more noticeable. Most laptops and devices use a 12-volt battery; at this voltage, you are more likely to feel a sensation. At 50 volts or above, the sensation can be felt across the skin, posing a significant risk of electrical burn or injury.

Avoiding the Dangers

Avoiding actions that can lead to battery-related injuries is crucial. Here are some tips to prevent accidents:

Avoid touching the terminals of any battery with your tongue or any part of your mouth. Keep batteries out of reach of children. Replace damaged or leaking batteries promptly. Dispose of spent batteries safely, following local guidelines for battery recycling.

Conclusion

In summary, licking a battery poses inherent risks of electric shock, chemical exposure, infection, and physical injury. These dangers underscore the importance of never putting batteries in your mouth or coming into direct contact with their terminals. By understanding these risks, you can ensure a safer environment for yourself and others.