The type of cell that cannot be recharged is known as a **primary cell**. Unlike secondary cells (which are rechargeable), primary cells are designed for single-use and are discarded after their chemical energy is depleted. Here are a few common examples:
1. **Alkaline Cells**: These are widely used in household devices like remote controls, flashlights, and clocks. Once their energy is used up, they cannot be recharged and must be replaced.
2. **Zinc-Carbon Cells**: These are another type of primary cell commonly found in low-drain devices. They have a shorter lifespan compared to alkaline cells and are also non-rechargeable.
3. **Lithium Cells**: While there are rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, many lithium cells, especially the primary lithium cells used in cameras and other devices, are designed for one-time use only.
Primary cells rely on irreversible chemical reactions to produce electrical energy, which means that once the reaction products are consumed, they cannot be reversed or replenished by applying an electric current, as is done with secondary (rechargeable) cells.