A secondary cell devised by Thomas Edison (1847–1931) having a positive plate of nickel oxide and a negative plate of iron both immersed in an electrolyte of potassium hydroxide. The reaction on discharge is
the reverse occurring during charging. Each cell gives an e.m.f. of about 1.2 volts and produces about 100 kJ per kilogram during each discharge. The nickel–cadmium cell is a similar device with a negative cadmium electrode. It is often used as a dry cell. Compare lead–acid accumulator.