Lead sulfate forms during battery discharge. Who is correct about its formation?

The formation of lead sulfate during battery discharge is a fundamental principle of how lead-acid batteries operate. When a lead-acid battery discharges, the chemical reaction converts the active materials—lead dioxide (PbO2) at the positive plate and sponge lead (Pb) at the negative plate—into lead sulfate (PbSO4) and water (H2O). This reaction is crucial because it illustrates the battery's energy conversion process, whereby chemical energy is transformed into electrical energy.

For both technicians to be correct in their statements, they must each provide accurate descriptions or insights related to the formation of lead sulfate. If both technicians explain this process correctly, then both are valid. Their statements may cover different aspects of the discharge process, but if both align with the established chemistry of battery function, this supports the conclusion that both A and B contribute correct information regarding lead sulfate formation during discharge.

Recognizing the role of lead sulfate in the discharge and, subsequently, the charging process in lead-acid batteries is essential for diagnosing issues and understanding battery performance.