Question

What is an electric cell?

Answer 1

Hint: An electric cell also known as an electrochemical cell is a device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy to do useful work like power a load (i.e. bulbs, etc). Current flows from the positive terminal (cathode) via the external circuit to the negative terminal (anode).

Complete answer:
Electric cell is an electrical power supply to power the load. There are three types of cell referred to as an electrical cell, an electrochemical cell, a solar cell and an electrolytic cell. The process involved in each is similar and all are mainly used to produce current in the circuit and power the load. The figure below shows a typical electric cell, it has two metal electrodes immersed in an electrolyte solution.

It converts chemical energy into electrical energy, the electrolyte (like, sodium chloride) is a solution of water and solvent containing dissolved ions. The ions get attracted to the electrode of opposite charge and chemical reactions (redox reactions) take place and an electric current is drawn in the circuit.
The maximum potential difference between the two electrodes is called electromotive force or the emf of the cell, it is the energy per unit charge.

Additional Information:
Galvanic cells are a type of electrochemical cell. It consists of two electrodes made of two different metals immersed in separate electrolyte solutions and a salt bridge to connect these two half cells.

 Note:
Electric cells can be rechargeable or use and throw, non rechargeable electric cells are often referred to as primary cells (chemical reactions here are not reversible) and rechargeable electric cells are often referred to as secondary cells.