When battery cells are connected in series, what is the expected outcome?

When battery cells are connected in series, the primary outcome is an increase in voltage output. In a series configuration, the total voltage of the battery system is the sum of the individual voltages of each cell. For example, if two 1.5-volt batteries are connected in series, the total voltage output would be 3 volts.

This arrangement allows the cells to work together to deliver a higher voltage for a given load. Series connections do not inherently increase current flow. Instead, the current remains the same as that of an individual cell because the same amount of electricity travels through each cell sequentially. Additionally, connecting cells in series does not decrease overall resistance, as the total resistance in the circuit tends to increase. Furthermore, battery life is not necessarily enhanced; in fact, connecting cells of varying charge states in series can lead to inefficiencies and reduced overall lifespan. Thus, increasing the voltage output is the key characteristic of connecting battery cells in series.