A chemical engineer examines a nickel-cadmium battery undergoing rapid charging. Which outcome is most likely due to the enthalpy of formation of cadmium hydroxide?

💡 Explanation

When a battery is rapidly charged, the enthalpy of formation of cadmium hydroxide can cause significant heat generation, because the exothermic formation reaction releases thermal energy that elevates the battery's temperature, possibly triggering thermal runaway. Therefore, temperature increases, rather than changes in surface area or resistance, are most probable.

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