The correct statement about the lithium-ion battery is:
A new substance is formed as the battery is used.
During the operation of the battery, chemical reactions occur that involve the movement of lithium ions between the anode and cathode, resulting in the formation of different substances compared to the original state of the battery.
The other statements are incorrect as follows:
- Lithium atoms are not created; rather, they move from one electrode to another.
- Electrons do not get lost to the environment; they flow through the external circuit.
- The mass of the battery does not significantly increase when recharged, as the overall amount of active material remains the same; electrons and ions are being transferred back and forth.