Which type of battery cannot be recharged?

A primary cell is designed for one-time use and cannot be recharged. These batteries generate electric energy through irreversible chemical reactions. Once the reactants in a primary cell are depleted, the chemical process cannot be reversed, leading to the battery being unusable. Common examples of primary cells include alkaline batteries and lithium batteries that are not rechargeable.

In contrast, secondary cells, also known as rechargeable batteries, can be recharged because their chemical reactions can be reversed. Hybrid cells combine features of both primary and secondary cells but can typically be recharged. Lithium cells can be both primary or secondary; in the context of the question, those specified as rechargeable (like lithium-ion batteries) are meant to be reused.

Understanding this distinction is fundamental as it informs choices relating to battery use in various applications, highlighting the suitability of each battery type based on whether or not recharging is feasible.