What is a battery?
A battery is a two-terminal electrochemical device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy by a reaction called the electro-chemical oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction. This reaction involves electron transfer from one material to another through an electric circuit.

Let's dive into the history of batteries.
History of Early Batteries
In 1800, Volta discovered that particular fluids could generate an uninterrupted flow of electrical power when used as conductors. This discovery directed and guided the invention called 'First Voltaic Cell', commonly known as a battery. Volta also determines that when the voltaic cells are stacked on top of each other, there will be an increase in the voltage.
In 1802, the mass production of the first electric battery was designed by William Cruickshank. He arranged sheets of copper (square-shaped) with sheets of zinc (equal size, similar to that of the copper) into a long wooden box and soldiered them together.
The metal plates are held in position inside the box with the help of grooves. The electrolyte of brine or watered-down acid is then filled in the sealed box. This is the first flooded battery, which has the advantage of not drying out when used.This setup provided energy, which is greater than Volta's discovery.
History of rechargeable batteries
In 1836, an English chemist named John F. Daniell developed a battery that delivers a steadier current than the earlier attempts to store electrical energy.
In 1859, a French physician named Gaston Plante developed the first rechargeable battery. This battery was composed of lead acid, which is the form of the system in which we use it at present. Till then, all types of batteries were primary, i.e., they could not be recharged.
In 1899, Waldmar Jugner, from Sweden, developed the NiCd battery (Nickel-Cadmium). This battery used nickel as the cathode and cadmium as the anode. The material costs for this NiCd battery are high compared to lead, which limits its usage.
After 2 years, Thomas Edison replaced cadmium with iron, and this battery was called Nickel-Iron (NiFe). The nickel-iron battery was not successful for the following reasons:
Low-specific energy
At low temperatures, performance was poor.
High self-discharge
For portable apps, the only battery that was rechargeable was NiCd.
In the 1990s, European environmentalists found out about the harm caused when NiCd batteries are disposed of carelessly. Nickel-metal-hydride is the alternative for this and is environmentally friendly.
Since 1991, the world has started to improve lithium-based systems (Li-ion).