UPSC Prelims 2025 · Question 3 of 100

UPSC Prelims 2025 question on Ev Battery Materials

In the context of electric vehicle batteries, consider the following elements:

I. Cobalt
II. Graphite
III. Lithium
IV. Nickel

How many of the above usually make up battery cathodes?

  1. Only one
  2. Only two
  3. Only three
  4. All the four
Show answer

Answer: C. Only three

A lithium-ion battery typically has a cathode (positive electrode), an anode (negative electrode) and electrolyte.

I. Cobalt – CATHODE: It is commonly used in cathodes of batteries like Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LCO), NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt), and NCA (Nickel Cobalt Aluminum). Cobalt improves energy density and battery life.

II. Graphite – NOT CATHODE: It is used in the anodes, not the cathode. It is the most common anode material in lithium-ion batteries.

III. Lithium – CATHODE: It is present in both cathodes and electrolyte. In the cathode it forms compounds like LiCoO2, LiFePO4, LiNiMnCoO2, etc.

IV. Nickel – CATHODE: Used in cathodes like NMC and NCA. Enhances energy density and storage capacity.

Three elements (Cobalt, Lithium, Nickel) usually make up battery cathodes → Option (c).

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