What happens when multiple lead-acid cells are connected in a series circuit?

When multiple lead-acid cells are connected in a series circuit, the voltage output of the entire system is the sum of the individual cell voltages. Each lead-acid cell typically has a nominal voltage of about 2 volts. By connecting them in series, the total voltage increases while the current capacity, or the ability to deliver current, remains the same as that of a single cell. This characteristic is fundamental to how series circuits operate. Hence, the key point is that the overall voltage increases in proportion to the number of cells connected, while the current capabilities remain constant, which aligns perfectly with the principles of electrical circuits involving series connections.

This behavior is in contrast to how different configurations of circuits function. For example, connecting cells in parallel would result in increased current capacity while maintaining the same voltage level, which is not the scenario presented when using series connections with lead-acid cells.