Why Do Batteries Run Out? | A2 ESL Science Reading Passage

Use this A2-B1 ESL science reading passage to learn why batteries run out. It includes key vocabulary, reading comprehension questions, and answers for English learners.

Batteries run out when devices use their stored energy.

Reading Level

A2-B1

Word Count

181 words

Reading Passage

A phone, toy, clock, or flashlight may work well at first. Later, it may slow down or stop. Many devices stop because the battery has run out.

A battery stores energy. Inside many batteries, there are chemicals that help make electricity. When a battery is connected to a device, electricity can move from the battery into the device.

The device uses this electricity to do work. A phone uses it to light the screen and make sound. A toy may use it to move. A flashlight uses it to make light. Each time the device works, it uses some of the battery's stored energy.

After a while, the battery has less useful energy left. The chemicals inside the battery cannot make enough electricity for the device. Then the device becomes weak or turns off. This is what people mean when they say the battery is dead.

Some batteries are rechargeable. A rechargeable battery can get more energy from a charger. But even rechargeable batteries can become weaker after many uses.

Batteries run out because devices use their stored energy over time.

A battery stores energy, sends electricity, and becomes weak after use.

Key Vocabulary

Word	Meaning	Example
battery	an object that stores energy and gives electricity to a device	The toy needs a battery.
energy	the power needed to do work or make things happen	The phone uses energy from the battery.
chemical	a material that can change and make energy	Chemicals inside a battery help make electricity.
device	a machine or tool that does a job	A flashlight is a useful device.
rechargeable	able to be filled with energy again using electricity	A rechargeable battery can use a charger.

Reading Comprehension Questions

1. What are some devices that use batteries?
2. What does a battery store?
3. What helps many batteries make electricity?
4. Why does a battery run out?
5. What does rechargeable mean?

Answers

1. Phones, toys, clocks, and flashlights can use batteries.
2. A battery stores energy.
3. Chemicals inside the battery help make electricity.
4. A battery runs out because a device uses its stored energy.
5. Rechargeable means able to be filled with energy again using electricity.

Short Summary

A battery stores energy and sends electricity to a device. It runs out when the device uses the stored energy over time.

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