What Is the End of a Battery Called? (Terminal Explained)
The metal contacts at each end of a battery are called terminals. The end with a raised bump is the positive terminal (cathode), and the flat end is the negative terminal (anode). So the direct answer to “what is the end of a battery called” is a terminal.
How Battery Terminals Work
A terminal is the point where electrical current enters or leaves the battery. In a standard AA or AAA cell, the positive terminal is the small nub on top, while the negative terminal covers the entire flat bottom. When you place a battery into a device, the terminals press against metal springs or contacts inside the compartment to complete the circuit. For example, in a flashlight, the positive terminal touches the center contact at the bulb end, and the negative terminal connects to the spring at the cap end. Battery University explains that terminals are typically made of nickel-plated steel or brass to resist corrosion and conduct electricity well Battery University.
Key Takeaways
- The end of a battery is called a terminal; the positive terminal is usually the raised nub, and the negative terminal is the flat base.
- Terminals connect the battery to a device’s circuit, allowing electrons to flow from the negative to the positive terminal through the device.
- Common terminal materials include nickel-plated steel and brass for durability and conductivity.
- Always match the correct terminal orientation (positive to positive, negative to negative) when inserting batteries to avoid damage or poor performance.
