A scientist is using a lithium ion battery to power her laptop. Which statement about the battery is correct?

Electrons are lost to the environment when the battery is used.
Electrons are lost to the environment when the battery is used.

A new substance is formed as the battery is used.
A new substance is formed as the battery is used.

The mass of the battery increases when it is recharged.
The mass of the battery increases when it is recharged.

Lithium atoms are created as the battery recharges.

The statement "A new substance is formed as the battery is used" is correct. During the discharge process in a lithium-ion battery, lithium ions move from the anode to the cathode, which involves chemical reactions and the formation of new substances. The other statements are not correct.

The statement "A new substance is formed as the battery is used" is correct. During the discharge process of a lithium-ion battery, lithium ions move from the negative electrode (anode) to the positive electrode (cathode) through the electrolyte. This movement of lithium ions causes chemical reactions within the battery, resulting in the creation of a new substance.

The correct statement about the battery is: A new substance is formed as the battery is used.

Explanation:
In a lithium-ion battery, the electrochemical reactions that occur during usage involve the movement of lithium ions between the battery's positive and negative electrodes. The lithium ions are transferred through an electrolyte, often a liquid or gel-like substance. As the battery is discharged (used), the lithium ions move from the negative electrode (anode) to the positive electrode (cathode). This movement of ions is accompanied by the flow of electrons, which is what provides the electrical energy.

During discharging, the lithium ions combine with a host material at the positive electrode, typically a transition metal oxide. This combination forms a new compound, which stores the energy until it's needed. When the battery is charged, the reverse process occurs, with the lithium ions moving back to the negative electrode. This causes the new compound to decompose back into the original materials, ready to be used again in the next discharge cycle.

In summary, as the battery is used, a new substance is formed at the positive electrode, and this substance decomposes back into its original components during recharging.