An alkaline dry cell is similar to the Leclanche cell, but it has `"_______"` as the electrolyte in place of ammonium chloride.

Options

A. `KOH`
B. `NaOH`
C. Either of two
D. `Zn(NO_(3))_(2)`

Answer

C

Explanation

Alkaline dry cells are similar to Leclanche dry cells except that `(1)` the electrolyte is basic (alkaline) because it contains `KOH` or `NaOH`, and `(2)` the interior surface of the `Zn` container is rough, this gives a larger surface area.
Alkaline cells have a longer shelf life than ordinary dry cells. They can stand up better under heavy use and can deliver more current.
Main reasons for the better performance of alkaline cells are: (i) larger effective area since the anode is made porous and (ii) abscence of acid atmosphere. Due to the acid atmosphere caused by the presence of `NH_(4)^(+)` ions in Leclanche cell, the electrodes in it get carroded cosily.