Cycle Life
Cycle life refers to the number of complete charge and discharge cycles a battery can undergo before its capacity significantly diminishes. Each cycle consists of charging the battery to its full capacity and then using it until it reaches a certain discharge level. Over time, repeated cycles can lead to wear and tear, affecting the battery's performance.
Factors influencing cycle life include the type of battery chemistry, temperature, and charging practices. For instance, lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in devices like smartphones and electric vehicles, typically have a longer cycle life compared to older technologies like nickel-cadmium. Proper care can help extend the cycle life of a battery.